Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
