Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter 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 UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
