🔗 Share this article

Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable 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.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.

Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as 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 reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.