Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
