Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added 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 recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
