🔗 Share this article

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a massive legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.

Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."

He shared 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. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.

Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.