Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim After Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, 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
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes 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.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
