🔗 Share this article Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs." Race Exit and Underlying Reasons 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 linked to the conflict in Gaza. "I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post. He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned. Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment. Gee admitted that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team. Substantial Demand and Team Changes "I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual." He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments. The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years. In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.