Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, 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. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
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.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.