Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
