Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "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 shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding 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, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
