Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
