Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.