Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
