🔗 Share this article Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Due to Personal Convictions Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs." Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza. "I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post. He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added. Official Stance and Legal Proceedings The team told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input. Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad. Massive Claim and Team Changes "I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person." He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, 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 amount during their racing years. In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.