Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract due to 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. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
