🔗 Share this article Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief' Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions." Race Exit and Underlying Reasons The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza. "I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post. He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added. Official Stance and Ongoing Case The team told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment. Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated 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 now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual." He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments. The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers. Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.