Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
