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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.

He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.

Official Stance 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 cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."

He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.

In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.