Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'

Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting 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 based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.

He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.

Gee admitted that leaving the team meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – 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.

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 the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.