Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
