🔗 Share this article

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.

He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, 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 individual."

He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.