Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Termination 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 comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated 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, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
