Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Termination Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
