🔗 Share this article Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Agreement Ending Over 'Personal Belief' Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions." Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza. "I ended my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts. He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned. Official Stance and Legal Proceedings Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input. Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team. Massive Claim and Team Changes "I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual." He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments. It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers. Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.