🔗 Share this article

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s 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 the conflict in Gaza.

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

He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.

Gee admitted that leaving 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 as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."

He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.

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