Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response 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 the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over 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, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
