Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
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 would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
