Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
