Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
