Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
