Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.