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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.

He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

The team told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.

Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."

He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding 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.

In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.