Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim After Contract Termination Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
