Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to comment 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 also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
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 current Israeli branding following over ten years.
