Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
