Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Damages Claim Following Contract Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."
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 just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.