Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic 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 about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
