Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Contract Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable 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 moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
