🔗 Share this article Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Over Personal Convictions Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs." Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza. "I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post. He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added. Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input. Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad. Massive Claim and Team Changes "I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person." He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments. It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum during their racing years. Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.