Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
