Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice 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, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.

He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."

He shared that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.

In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.