Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
