Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, 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 experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable 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 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 ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
