Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit Following Agreement Ending Over 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract 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 Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Team Changes
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that this situation 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 only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
