Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, 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 Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
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 currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
