Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Agreement Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable 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 came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," 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 an athlete and a person."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
