Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Agreement Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered 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 factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
