Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
