Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
