Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, 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 emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, 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 insurance 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 recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
