Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim After Agreement Termination Due to Personal Convictions

Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.

Gee admitted that departing from the team meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."

He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.