Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces 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 described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief 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. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
