Professional rider Derek Gee from Canada has revealed he is confronting a massive legal demand amounting to 30 million euros from his former team, Israel-Premier Tech. This comes after his decision to terminate his agreement due to what he described as "personal beliefs."
The 28-year-old, who finished fourth in the general classification at the recent Giro d’Italia, left his team just prior to the Vuelta a España in September. That race was subject to widespread 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 keep fulfilling their work in the current situation," Gee stated on his social media accounts.
He emphasized that the decision was carefully considered and followed a broken relationship with the team principal, as well as serious concerns about competing for the squad from safety and ethical perspective. These factors deeply affected his conscience, he added.
Israel-Premier Tech informed Reuters they could not to comment regarding this issue since the dispute is currently before the arbitration panel of cycling's governing body, the international cycling union. The news agency has also contacted the governing body for comment.
Gee admitted that leaving the team left him without an agreement or protection in case of injury, but added this was a chance he was willing to take as he could no longer keep competing with the squad.
"I recognize the team sees it differently," Gee continued. "However, I now confront what I understand to be a financial demand said to exceed approximately €30m – simply for upholding my basic rights as an athlete and a person."
He shared that this situation strengthens my belief that leaving the team 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 sum throughout their careers.
In related news, the team stated earlier this week that they would undergo a complete rebranding starting in 2026, distancing themselves from their current Israeli branding following over ten years.
Astrophysicist and space technology consultant with 15 years of experience in lunar mission planning and research.
