Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Due to Personal Convictions

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.

He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, 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 arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.

Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."

He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.

Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.