Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Agreement Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to 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 Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
