Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Contract Termination Over 'Personal Belief'
Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."
Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee explained in a social media post.
He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and ethical perspective. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Ongoing Case
The team told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is now with 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 leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or protection if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.
It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
