🔗 Share this article

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, after placing 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. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement 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 about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."

He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.