Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for comment.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing for the team.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

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

He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.