Former Cyclist Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Agreement Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million by his previous squad, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows his choice to end his contract based on what he called "deeply held convictions."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth overall at this year’s Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread demonstrations related to Palestine 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 duties in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He noted that the decision was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries about competing for the squad from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors deeply affected his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

The team told Reuters they were unable to comment regarding this issue as the case is currently before the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for their input.

Gee admitted that departing from the team left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he accepted since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."

He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn just a small portion of that amount during their racing years.

Separately, the team stated earlier this week that the team will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.