Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Over Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to 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 informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
