Former Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Ending Over Personal Convictions

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his choice to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread demonstrations related to Palestine linked to the conflict in Gaza.

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

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

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

The team informed Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for their input.

Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and individual."

He expressed that these developments reinforce his view that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the team's recent statement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

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

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that they would undergo a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.