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Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with 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 duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

The team informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.

Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."

He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.