Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit Following Agreement Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision 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 both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from 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 continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that sum throughout their careers.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
