Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize 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 a professional and individual."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
