Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving the team meant being without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.