Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
