Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
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 international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
