Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim After Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine 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 not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter 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 their input.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
