Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from the team meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim 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 – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
