Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
