Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
