Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
