Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite 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, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
