Former Rider Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a substantial 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 "deeply held convictions."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for their input.
Gee admitted that departing from Israel-Premier Tech left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Substantial Demand and Team Changes
"I understand the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.
