Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Termination Due to Personal Convictions

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee has revealed he faces a substantial legal demand totaling €30 million from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This comes after his choice to end his contract based on what he described as "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event was subject to widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated in a social media post.

He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, in addition to serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These issues weighed heavily on his conscience, he added.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they were unable to provide a statement on the matter as the case is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the international cycling union. Reuters has also contacted the UCI for their input.

Gee acknowledged that leaving Israel-Premier Tech meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he accepted as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."

He shared that this situation reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

It remains unclear what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that sum during their racing years.

In related news, the team stated earlier this week that the team would undergo a full rebrand starting in 2026, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.