Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable 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 has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
