Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Agreement Ending Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
