After months of swirling rumours, Derek Gee’s future has reportedly been decided – official announcement expected within days

Cycling
Sunday, 04 January 2026 at 17:28
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After one of the most protracted and complex transfer sagas of recent seasons, Derek Gee is now reportedly set to begin the next chapter of his career with Lidl-Trek, with an official announcement expected imminently.
That is according to Ciro Scognamiglio of La Gazzetta dello Sport, who stated on Friday through his social media channels that the deal is already done and that confirmation is expected in the coming days.
If confirmed, it would finally bring clarity to a situation that has hovered over the transfer market since late summer, following Gee’s decision to cancel his long-term contract with Israel - Premier Tech.

From Giro breakout to contract dispute

Gee’s market value rose sharply after a breakthrough 2024 campaign, capped by a standout ride at the Giro d'Italia, where he finished fourth overall and emerged as one of the most compelling Grand Tour prospects in the peloton.
Just months later, the Canadian found himself at the centre of controversy after announcing he had terminated his contract with Israel-Premier Tech, a deal understood to run through to 2028. The decision triggered an immediate and highly public dispute, with the team disputing the termination and the case escalating towards cycling’s formal arbitration channels.
As the legal process loomed, public communication from all parties slowed dramatically, while Gee’s racing programme was disrupted and speculation about his next destination intensified.

INEOS rumours fade as Lidl-Trek move comes into focus

Early reporting linked Gee strongly with INEOS Grenadiers, fuelled by the timing of his contract exit and his sudden absence from late-season racing. However, as the dispute dragged on, those rumours gradually cooled without any visible resolution.
In recent weeks, attention shifted increasingly towards Lidl-Trek, with multiple outlets suggesting the American-registered team had emerged as the most likely destination once a pathway forward became clear.
Scognamiglio’s update now appears to confirm that assessment, indicating that the final pieces are in place and that official confirmation is imminent.
Derek Gee poses next to the Giro d'Italia trophy
Gee will bolster Lidl-Trek's GC strength alongside Juan Ayuso, Mattias Skjelmose, Giulio Ciccone and Tao Geoghegan Hart

A defining moment for rider and market

For Gee, the move would represent both a sporting and symbolic reset after months of uncertainty, allowing him to refocus on racing rather than contracts and courtrooms. For Lidl-Trek, securing a rider of Gee’s profile would mark a significant addition to their Grand Tour ambitions.
Until the formal announcement arrives, the situation remains technically unresolved. But after months of silence, speculation and legal complexity, the transfer market finally appears to have its answer.
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