Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Agreement Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended 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 noted that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
