Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract 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 a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
