Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
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, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.