Canadian Rider Derek Gee Confronts 30 Million Euro Lawsuit Following Agreement Ending Due to 'Personal Belief'
Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand amounting to €30 million by his previous squad, Israel-Premier Tech. This follows his decision to terminate his agreement based on what he described as "personal beliefs."
Race Exit and Key Motivations
Gee, aged 28, after placing fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, departed from Israel-Premier Tech just prior to September’s Vuelta a España. The event experienced widespread pro-Palestinian protests linked to the conflict in Gaza.
"I terminated my agreement with just cause, as is every person’s right when they are unable to keep fulfilling their duties under the existing circumstances," Gee stated in a social media post.
He noted that the decision was not taken lightly and followed a broken relationship with the team's leader, in addition to major worries related to racing for the team from both a safety and personal-belief standpoint. These factors weighed heavily on his conscience, he mentioned.
Team’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment 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 their input.
Gee admitted that leaving Israel-Premier Tech left him without a contract or insurance if he were injured, but stated it was a risk he was willing to take since he was unable to continue racing for the team.
Massive Claim and Rebranding News
"I recognize the team has a different view," Gee went on. "Yet, I now confront what I understand to be a damages claim reportedly over around 30 million euros – simply for exercising my fundamental rights as a professional and individual."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that departing the squad was correct, regardless of the recent announcement of branding changes and organizational adjustments.
The basis is uncertain what the 30 million euro claim covers. Riders typically earn only a fraction of that amount during their racing years.
In related news, Israel–Premier Tech announced on Monday that the team will undertake a complete rebranding for the 2026 season, distancing themselves from their Israeli identity after more than a decade.
