Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'

Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he described as "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

The team told Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.

Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "Yet, I now confront 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 this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that sum during their racing years.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.