Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "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 a professional and individual."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
