Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
