Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
