Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
