Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'

Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for comment.

Gee admitted that leaving the team meant being without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."

He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.

In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.