Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro 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 from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
