Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim After Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

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. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."

He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.

Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.