🔗 Share this article

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.

Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

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

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

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.