Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving the team meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
