Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he faces a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes 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.
Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
