Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Due to Personal Convictions

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to 30 million euros by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my agreement for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and ethical perspective. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the governing body for their input.

Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated it was a risk he accepted as he could no longer keep competing for the team.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "Yet, I am now facing what I understand to be a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."

He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.