Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.