Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
