Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as 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, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
