Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
