Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Contract Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before 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 a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than 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 about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.