Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim Following Agreement Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
