Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
