Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.