Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine 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 duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed 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 deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.