Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team 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 for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
