Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Agreement Ending 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 terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
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. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
