Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Termination Due to Personal Convictions

Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his decision to end his contract due to what he called "deeply held convictions."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their duties in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.

He noted that his choice was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they were unable to comment on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.

Gee admitted that departing from the team left him 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 keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and individual."

He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.

Separately, the team announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.