Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable 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 followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
