Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.