Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
