Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions

Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.

He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "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 strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum 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, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.