Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Agreement Ending Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance 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 the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
