Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement 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 during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.