Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case 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 acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize 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 this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
