Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing 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. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement 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.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
