Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Contract Termination Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to terminate his agreement based on what he called "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. That race experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.
"I ended my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Official Stance and Ongoing Case
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for their input.
Gee acknowledged that leaving the team left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.
Substantial Demand and Rebranding News
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount throughout their careers.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
