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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is currently before 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 meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."

He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.

Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.