Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive legal demand amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue 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 governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
