Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "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 his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice 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 weighed heavily on 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 arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
