Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Contract Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. 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 in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable 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 conscience, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what is described as a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
