Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim Following Agreement Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
