Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told 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 acknowledged that departing from the team left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite 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 sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
