Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim After Agreement Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as 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 this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
