Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim After Agreement Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand totaling 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 called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall 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 linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance 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 Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic 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 recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
