Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement 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, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
