Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech 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.