Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement 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 not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitral board 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 the team meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
