Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added 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 sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
