Former Rider Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.

He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he added.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input.

Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."

He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

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

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.

Kenneth Bell
Kenneth Bell

A tech strategist and writer passionate about digital transformation and emerging technologies.