Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue 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 governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
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.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
