Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a massive legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. 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 for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
