Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing 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 financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
