Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
