Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
