Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
