Derek Gee hits back hard at Israel-Premier Tech after torn-up contract, 30 million euros damages claim

Gee's departure was a snowball that started rolling when he was suddenly missing from Israel-Premier Tech's selection for the Vuelta a España in August. “Israel-Premier Tech unexpectedly received a termination notice from the lawyers representing Derek Gee on Friday, August 9,” the team wrote, explaining his absence.

Gee signed a contract in 2023 until the end of 2028, but wanted out. Both parties entered into discussions, with the UCI also getting involved. “To resolve the situation and uphold the contract in question,” according to Israel-Premier Tech. Gee responded by saying that his contract had been terminated. “After careful consideration and for legitimate reasons,” he wrote.

After all the statements, we heard nothing from Gee for a long time, not even about a possible new team. On Thursday evening, the climber issued a detailed statement, emphasizing that a lot is going on, about which he can say little. But: “I terminated my contract, as is every person's right if they can no longer perform under the existing circumstances.”

"Money was never the problem," Gee emphasized. So what was? "Leaving carried the risk that I would have no team and no contract, so no security if I got injured. I was willing to take that risk because I couldn't go on. I understand that the team sees it differently, so the appropriate authorities will have to decide."

According to Gee, Israel-Premier Tech aims to push boundaries to extremes. He says there is a damages claim of 30 million euros. The UCI arbitration committee also has to have its say. "Such actions are a reflection of the problems that led to this break. It strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right choice."

Gee concluded his statement with a reference to the removal of Israel from the team's name and the departure of team boss Sylvan Adams. The link with Israel, the war in Gaza, and everything that came with it (such as withdrawing from the Italian classics) seems to be over as of 2026. Gee saw it too, but will not reverse his decision because of it.