Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team told 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 has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
