Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated 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 has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
