Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team informed 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. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
