Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
