Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be 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 shared that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
