Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue 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 leaving the team meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
