Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim After Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," 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 serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain 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 the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
