Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to 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 in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving 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.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
