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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement 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 followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.

Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."

He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.