Derek Gee Faces €30 Million Claim After Leaving Israel-Premier Tech

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee is facing a substantial damages claim of €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech, following his decision to terminate his contract. Gee, who achieved a fourth-place finish overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, stepped away from the team shortly before the Vuelta a España, an event that saw pro-Palestinian protests related to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza.

Gee cited “personal beliefs” as the primary reason for his departure. In a statement shared on social media, he emphasized, “I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances.” He described the decision as a difficult one, resulting from an “irreparable relationship” with the team’s principal and significant concerns regarding his safety and personal beliefs.

Israel-Premier Tech has not commented on the specifics of the situation, stating that the matter is under review by the UCI, the sport’s governing body. A spokesperson for the team noted that they could not provide further details at this time. The UCI has also been approached for additional comment.

Although leaving Israel-Premier Tech means that Gee is currently without a contract or any insurance coverage in the event of injury, he expressed that the risk was necessary. “I understand the team sees it differently,” he stated. “However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30 million—for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person.”

The exact nature of the €30 million figure remains unclear, particularly since professional cyclists typically earn only a fraction of that amount over the duration of a contract. This claim highlights the ongoing tensions within the sport and raises questions about the implications of personal beliefs on professional commitments.

In a related development, Israel-Premier Tech announced plans to undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, marking a departure from its Israeli identity after more than a decade. This shift comes amid growing scrutiny and debate surrounding the team’s position in light of current geopolitical issues.

As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on the legal ramifications of Gee’s departure and the potential impact on his career as well as on the broader cycling community.