Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, 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 Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing 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 widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with 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 in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
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 organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
