Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, 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 individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear 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 full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
