Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros 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
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot 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 followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
