Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Termination 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, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
