🔗 Share this article Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim After Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs." Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza. "I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts. He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added. Team’s Response and Ongoing Case The team told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel 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 Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing for the team. Substantial Demand and Team Changes "I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person." He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments. The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years. In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.