Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement 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 not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
