Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
