Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain 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 the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
