Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
