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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.

He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."

He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.