Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered 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 ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
