Canadian Cyclist 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 substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."

He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.

In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.