Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
