Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed 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 weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract 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 recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
