🔗 Share this article

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.

Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."

He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.

In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.