Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of 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 throughout their careers.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.