Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on 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 shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize 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 exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
