Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Contract Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
