Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from 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 arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," 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 individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
