Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
