Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
