Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive 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 stated in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
