Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Agreement Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro dāItalia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a EspaƱa in September. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israelās offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every personās right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Teamās Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately ā¬30m ā simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed 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 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, IsraelāPremier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.