Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
