Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Termination Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision 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 both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, 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 a person."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
