Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
