🔗 Share this article Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions." Race Exit and Key Motivations The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza. "I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post. He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned. Official Stance and Legal Proceedings Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input. Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing for the team. Massive Claim and Team Changes "I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person." He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments. The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers. In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.