Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes 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, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
