Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Contract Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected 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 cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
