Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim After Contract Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
