Great Britain's squad for the World Championships in Richmond suffered a lot of bad luck, having their brightest stars Chris Froome, Gerain Thomas and Mark Cavendish withdrawing from from the event for more or less clear reasons. In such circumstances many would hope for Bradley Wiggins to step in and help his countrymen in need, but as Rod Ellingworth revealed, his participation in the road race was never an option.

Great Britain's head coach clarified that only discussions had with Wiggins were concerning his possible rainbow jersey defence in individual time trial, but the Hour Record holder weren't interested, happy to focus on his preparations towards the Olympic Games in Rio.

“I asked Brad ages ago and he quite straight and plainly said no,” Ellingworth told Cyclingnews.

"There was certainly never a question of him doing the road race but there was with the time trial as he was reigning world champion.”

“At the end of this day he has his objective and he’s happy with doing that,” added Ellingworth.

Having already given up on a hope to participate in the event, Adam Yates will replace Thomas in the road race, while Adam Blythe is expected to take another of two remaining slots in the team.