🔗 Share this article

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.

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

He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for comment.

Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."

He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

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

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