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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification 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 demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.

He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."

He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.

Separately, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.