Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Agreement Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive legal demand totaling 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he called "personal beliefs."
Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for comment.
Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance 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 Team Changes
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."
He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
