Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim After Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged 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 as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
