Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him 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 keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
