Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million 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
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue 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 admitted that leaving the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
