Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim After Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
