Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.