Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract 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 the decision was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
