Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.

He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.

Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

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

He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

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

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.