Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.

He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing for the team.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."

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

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.

In related news, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.