🔗 Share this article

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.

He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.

Gee acknowledged that departing from 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 continue racing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – 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 correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.

In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.