Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered 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 added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
