Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from 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 for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
