Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
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 just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team meant being without an agreement or insurance in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
