Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated 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 recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
