Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes 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.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
