Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine 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 stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
