Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision 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 both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
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, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
