Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on 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 just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from the team 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 recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of 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 just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
