Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial 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
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
