Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
