Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim After Contract Termination Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, 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 widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
