Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
