Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed 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. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech 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.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.