Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim After Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated 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 has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
