Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
