Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Agreement Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, 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 an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
