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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to 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 Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He noted that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. 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 insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."

He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.

In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.