Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted 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 added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
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 reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite 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 only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.