Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Contract Termination Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, 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.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, 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 sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief 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 sum throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
