Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive damages claim amounting to €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."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech 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 ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
