Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.

He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."

He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.