Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
