Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
