Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'

Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

Gee, aged 28, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine connected with Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.

He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns related to racing for the team from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters has also contacted the governing body for their input.

Gee acknowledged that departing from the team left him without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted since he was unable to keep competing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Team Changes

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what is described as a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."

He shared that these developments strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum throughout their careers.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.