Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech 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 continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, 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 amount 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.
