Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed 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 issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
