Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Agreement Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
