Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from the team meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement 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 during their racing years.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
