Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim After Agreement Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
