🔗 Share this article Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Ending Over 'Personal Belief' Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs." Race Exit and Key Motivations The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza. "I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post. He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned. Official Stance and Ongoing Case Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment. Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team. Massive Claim and Rebranding News "I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person." He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments. It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years. In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.