Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he is confronting a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict 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 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, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view 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 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
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 following over ten years.
