Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim Following Agreement Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after 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 the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, 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 noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him 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 Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
