Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract based on 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 his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
