Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
