Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
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 financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
