Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Ending Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
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 full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
