Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine 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 duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.