Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Due to Personal Convictions

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.

He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

The team told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.

Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing for the team.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."

He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.