Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
