Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Agreement Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. 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, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
