Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with 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 under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
