Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team 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 only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.