Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to comment 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 their input.
Gee admitted that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
