Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Agreement Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'

Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.

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

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.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."

He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

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

In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.