Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not 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 also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," 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 a professional and a person."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.