Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim After Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
