Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
