Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'

Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.

He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.

Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."

He shared that this situation 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. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.