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 damages claim amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left 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 contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"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 – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
