Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'

Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.

Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."

He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.