Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive legal demand amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
