Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine 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 duties in the current situation," Gee explained 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 serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
