Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
