Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. 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 continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, 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 an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
