Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated 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, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech 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 for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
