Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to 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 work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
