Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Ending Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated 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 on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added 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 sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
