Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts €30m Lawsuit After Contract Ending Due to Personal Convictions

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he is confronting a massive damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. That race was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.

"I ended my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right if they cannot to continue performing their work under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.

He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and came after an irreparable relationship with the team's leader, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his conscience, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they were unable to comment 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 acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but added this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.

Substantial Demand and Rebranding News

"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee continued. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and individual."

He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and cosmetic structural shifts.

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

In related news, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.