Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving the team meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
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, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
