Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement 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 Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, 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 a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
