Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Agreement Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
