Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to 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 approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
