Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Agreement Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. 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 complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
