🔗 Share this article

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.

He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

The team told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I understand 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 exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."

He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.

Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.