World pro cycling team Israel Premier Tech lost one of its most talented riders this week because of the team’s support for Israel. Derek Gee who came fourth in this year’s Giro d’Italia has decided he can not ride with the team because of his own personal beliefs about what is happening in Palestine. Cycling News had this to say.
“Derek Gee has suggested he faces a damages claim of roughly €30 million after unilaterally terminating his contract with Israel-Premier Tech, citing “serious concerns related to racing for the team, both from a safety and personal-belief standpoint,” as the reasons why he ended his contract.
Sports washing the genocide – last ride for Israel
The Canadian rider announced on August 25 that he and his legal representatives had unilaterally terminated his contract. Israel-Premier Tech claimed Gee’s contract, due to run until 2028, is valid. The UCI is now involved in the case.
Gee has raced for Israel-Premier Tech since 2023. He showed his talents as a breakaway specialist at the 2023 Giro d’Italia, became the team’s GC leader and finished ninth at the 2024 Tour de France and then fourth at this year’s Giro d’Italia.”
Israel Premier Tech’s most controversial contract is with Chris Froome, a former four times Tour de France winner. Froome has been injured for several seasons and is unable to perform despite being paid a huge amount through his contract. Froome seems unperturbed by the Israel brand name. Froome is part of the British diaspora in Africa, having been born in Nairobi in Kenya during apartheid and educated in South Africa.
Is Israel Premier Tech still viable?
Sponsors have called into question naming the team Israel and having the Star of David on its uniforms. Israel’s sponsor Factor Bikes has pulled out.
Sponsor ultimatum
Factor Bikes and co-sponsor Premier Tech have pushed for a name change, with Factor’s founder Rob Gitelis stating the brand “will not continue to sponsor” without it, due to the controversy surrounding the team’s name and the inability to “activate the team to the level that we would like”.
The Big Ride for Palestine Australia – get ready for the Big Ride for Palestine Australia, 2025
Big Ride for Palestine Australia, now in its eight year, will be riding again in November 2025. We are looking for participants this year in all states of Australia. Here in Brisbane there will be organized rides and a sponsorship scheme.
Funds raised through TBR25 for Palestine will be split 50/50 towards MA’AN Development Centre and Palestinian Women’s Humanitarian Organisation (PWHO).
For more details click on the QR Code below or go to https://big-ride-for-palestine-aus2025.raiselysite.com/
