Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Agreement Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. 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 starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
