Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – 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 correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
