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Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

The team told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."

He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.