Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
