Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
