Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Agreement Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view 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 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
