🔗 Share this article Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief' Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs." Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations The 28-year-old, after placing 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 linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza. "I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post. He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added. Official Stance and Ongoing Case Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, 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 a contract or insurance in case of injury, but stated 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 now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual." He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments. It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers. In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.