Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as 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
The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
