Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without an agreement or insurance 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.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
