Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Contract Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from the team meant being without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
