Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "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 an athlete and a person."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
