Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim After Contract Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, 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 individual."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
