Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted 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 am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
