Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable 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 conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
