Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Contract Termination Due to Personal Convictions

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.

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

He noted that the decision was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Official Stance and Ongoing Case

The team told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for comment.

Gee acknowledged that departing from Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection if he were injured, but added this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."

He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, despite the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.

In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.