🔗 Share this article Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs." Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza. "I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts. He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on 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 currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input. Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad. Massive Claim and Rebranding News "I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront 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 expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments. The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years. Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.