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

Canadian cyclist Derek Gee stated publicly he faces a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team. This follows 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 in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from his team shortly before the Vuelta a España in September. That race experienced extensive demonstrations related to Palestine linked to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

"I terminated my contract for valid reasons, as is every person’s right if they cannot to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated on his social media accounts.

He emphasized that his choice was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, as well as major worries related to racing for the team from safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his moral judgment, he mentioned.

Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings

The team informed Reuters they could not to comment on the matter since the dispute is now with the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the sport’s governing body. Reuters also reached out to the governing body for comment.

Gee acknowledged that departing from the team meant being without a contract or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing for the team.

Substantial Demand 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 – for doing nothing more than exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and a person."

He expressed that this situation reinforce his view that leaving the team was the right decision, despite the recent announcement of branding changes and cosmetic structural shifts.

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

Separately, Israel–Premier Tech stated earlier this week that they will undertake a full rebrand for the 2026 season, moving away from their current Israeli branding after more than a decade.