Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Agreement Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving the team meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic 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 team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
