Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing 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 extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
