Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," 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 safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
