Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros 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."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
