Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being 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 with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.