Canadian Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, 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.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."

He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.

Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.