Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he called "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, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being 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 keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
