Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
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. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
