Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent 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 the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding 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.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
