Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite 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 just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
