Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to 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
The team told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
