Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract 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 noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on 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 sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
