Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
