Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
