Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million 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 overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
