Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized 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 weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance 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 went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view 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 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.