🔗 Share this article Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions." Race Exit and Underlying Reasons Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza. "I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post. He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned. Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input. Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad. Massive Claim and Rebranding News "I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person." He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments. The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers. Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.