Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit Following Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he called "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Underlying Reasons

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

"I ended my agreement for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues weighed heavily on his moral judgment, 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 now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the UCI for comment.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over approximately €30m – for doing nothing more than upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."

He expressed that this situation strengthens my belief 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 throughout their careers.

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their Israeli identity following over ten years.