Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with 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 under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
