Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim After Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision 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 the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter 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 protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
