🔗 Share this article Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions." Race Exit and Key Motivations Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza. "I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts. He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a 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 provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input. Gee admitted that leaving the team meant being without an agreement 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. Massive Claim and Rebranding News "I recognize the team has a different view," 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 an athlete and individual." He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts. The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers. In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.