Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Agreement Ending Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.