Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim After Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
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.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
