Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding 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, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.