Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Damages Claim Following Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract based on 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, 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 terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
