Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice 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 both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.
Official Stance and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before 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 the team left him without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.
