Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with 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 work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
