Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
