Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. 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 following over ten years.
