Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million 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 the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract 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 emphasized that his choice was carefully considered 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 conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
