Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
