Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit Following Agreement Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine 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 in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech 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 with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
