Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.