Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
