Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim Following Agreement Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
