Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
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 would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
