Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
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 September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
