Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Termination Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
