Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim After Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended 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 not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
