Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
