Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
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. The event 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 keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.