Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
