🔗 Share this article Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim After Contract Termination Over Personal Convictions Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs." Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza. "I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post. He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added. Team’s Response and Ongoing Case The team told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute 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 acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing for the team. Massive Claim and Rebranding News "I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person." He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts. It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum during their racing years. In related news, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.