Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim After Contract Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'

Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced 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 on his social media accounts.

He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."

He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.

Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.