Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim After Contract Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
