Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite 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.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
