Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
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. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief 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. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
