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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a massive legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.

He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.

Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."

He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.