Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
