Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim After Contract Ending Over 'Personal Belief'

Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 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 "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for comment.

Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated 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 approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."

He shared that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.