Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding 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.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
