Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Over 'Personal Belief'

Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement with just cause, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to continue performing their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that his choice was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement on the matter since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.

Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."

He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.

In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity following over ten years.