Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from the team meant being without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
