🔗 Share this article Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions." Race Exit and Underlying Reasons Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza. "I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts. He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added. Team’s Response and Ongoing Case The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input. Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing for the team. Substantial Demand and Team Changes "I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual." He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments. It remains unclear 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 will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.