🔗 Share this article Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief' Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs." Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza. "I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts. He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned. Official Stance and Ongoing Case The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input. Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad. Massive Claim and Rebranding News "I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual." He shared that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments. The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers. In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.