Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
