Former Cyclist Derek Gee Faces 30 Million Euro Lawsuit After Contract Ending Over 'Personal Belief'

Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada stated publicly he faces a substantial damages claim totaling 30 million euros by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his choice to end his contract due to what he called "personal beliefs."

Departure Before Key Event and Underlying Reasons

The 28-year-old, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team shortly before September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced extensive pro-Palestinian protests connected with the conflict in Gaza.

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

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

Team’s Response and Ongoing Case

The team informed Reuters they could not to provide a statement regarding this issue since the dispute is now with the arbitral board of the UCI, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the UCI for comment.

Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer continue racing for the team.

Massive Claim and Rebranding News

"I understand the team has a different view," Gee went on. "However, I am now facing what is described as a financial demand reportedly over around 30 million euros – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as an athlete and a person."

He expressed that these developments strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement about rebranding and organizational adjustments.

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

Separately, the team announced on Monday that they will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.