Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 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 described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event 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. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
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 stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.