Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing 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 reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for 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 team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. 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 full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
