Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Due to Personal Convictions

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

The team told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.

Gee admitted that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing for the team.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."

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

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.