Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
