Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
