Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Contract Termination Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
