Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated 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 sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
