Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team 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 for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.