Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Agreement Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine 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 in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
