Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
