Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments 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 throughout their careers.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
