Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
