Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
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.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
