Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Termination Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable 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 came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added it was a risk 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. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
