Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute 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 admitted that leaving the team left him without a contract or insurance 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 Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand 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. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.