Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
