Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Agreement Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance 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. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
