Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Ending Over Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," 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, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
