Canadian cyclist Derek Gee says he is facing a damages claim of 30 million euros ($54 million) from his former team Israel-Premier Tech after ending his contract over what he described as "personal beliefs".

The 28-year-old finished fourth overall at this year's Giro d'Italia.

But he left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September's Vuelta a España, which was subject to pro-Palestinian protests linked to the Israel-Gaza war .

"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person's right when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee said in a statement on social media.

"This decision was not taken lightly — it followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the tea

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