Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim After Contract Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada 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 terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," 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 a person."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
