Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
