Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
