Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'

Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.

He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."

He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.

Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.