🔗 Share this article Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Ending Over 'Personal Belief' Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions." Race Exit and Underlying Reasons The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza. "I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post. He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added. Official Stance and Legal Proceedings The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment. Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take 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 am now facing what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual." He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments. The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers. In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.