Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
