Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable 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 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 deeply affected his moral judgment, 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 currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief 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. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
