Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement 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 carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.

Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."

He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.