Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.