Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
