Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim After Contract Termination Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s 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 connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case 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 acknowledged that leaving the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
