🔗 Share this article

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

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

"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.

He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case 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 a contract or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."

He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.