Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.

He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.

Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing for the team.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."

He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.

Separately, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.