Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
