Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to 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 it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
