Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
