Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take 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. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement 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 stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.