Selected for the nine-man Greats Britain's team for the upcoming UCI Road World Championships held in Richmond, Geraint Thomas decided to give away his spot in the squad, feeling he wouldn't be able to contribute to work of his team-mates properly. The news were announced via his account on Facebook.

"So I wanted to let you all know that sadly I won't be taking part in the world championships this year in Richmond," Thomas wrote.

"It's been a hard decision to make but the season has taken its toll on me and I don't feel physically up for a good worlds. I don't want to go there just to make up the numbers, I'd want to be competitive or at least do a good job for the boys."

Thomas had a very busy season indeed, kicking it off early at Santos Tour Down Under, participating in all important cobbled classics and riding two Grand Tour races. The Welshman strongly contributed to Chris Froome's success at the Tour de France, who also recently announced his withdrawal from the World Championships.

Mark Cavendish, Ben Swift, Stephen Cummings, Andy Fenn, Luke Rowe, Alex Dowsett, Ian Stananrd and Scott Thwaites are expected to represent Great Britain in the World Championships road race event, while Froome's and Thomas' replacements are yet to be announced.