Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency 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 this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
