Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "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 Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter 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 comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
