Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice 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 weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, 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 during their racing years.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
