Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
