Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
