Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left 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 terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not 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 comment.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"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 – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.