Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling 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 principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving 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 since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"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 – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain 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 after more than a decade.