Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced 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 if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, 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 these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.