Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.