Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
