Former Cyclist 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 from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a 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 comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
