Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "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 a professional and individual."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
