Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing 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 financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief 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. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
