Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
