🔗 Share this article Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Due to Personal Convictions Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions." Race Exit and Key Motivations Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza. "I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post. He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added. Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment. Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad. 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 reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person." He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding 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. Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.