Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.

He noted that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."

He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.