Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize 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 – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
