Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim After Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech 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.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
