Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.

He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."

He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.