Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
