Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance 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 continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
