Canadian Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, 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. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, 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 mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for comment.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."

He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction 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, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.