Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces €30m Lawsuit After Contract Termination Due to 'Personal Belief'

Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a massive damages claim totaling €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to end his contract based on what he called "personal beliefs."

Race Exit and Key Motivations

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth overall at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. The event was subject to extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, which is anyone's entitlement when they are unable to keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee explained in a social media post.

He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed an irreparable relationship with the team principal, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These issues deeply affected his moral judgment, he added.

Official Stance and Legal Proceedings

Israel-Premier Tech told Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. The news agency also reached out to the UCI for their input.

Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without an agreement or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take since he was unable to keep competing with the squad.

Massive Claim and Team Changes

"I understand the team sees it differently," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a damages claim said to exceed around 30 million euros – simply for upholding my basic rights as a professional and a person."

He shared that these developments reinforce his view that departing the squad was the right decision, regardless of the team's recent statement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

The basis is uncertain what the €30m figure represents. Professional cyclists usually make only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.

In related news, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.