Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes 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.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
