Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Due to Personal Convictions

Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

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

He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, 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.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.

Gee admitted that departing from the team meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."

He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement 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 during their racing years.

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