Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
