🔗 Share this article Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief' Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs." Race Exit and Underlying Reasons The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza. "I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post. He noted that the decision 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 issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned. Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings The team told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment. Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad. Substantial Demand and Team Changes "I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person." He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad 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. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers. Separately, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.