Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being 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 for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
