Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
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 approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
