Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
