Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
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 the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns 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
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"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 – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
