Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told 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 sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
