Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement 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, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from the team meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, 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 now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
