Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," 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 an athlete and a person."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
