Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Termination Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive legal demand amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, 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 extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated 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 explained in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, 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 Legal Proceedings
The team told 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. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
