🔗 Share this article Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Termination Due to Personal Convictions Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs." Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread 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 keep fulfilling their work 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, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned. Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment. Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad. Massive Claim and Rebranding News "I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person." He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments. It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers. In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.