Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Contract Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take 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. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
