British Cycling has confirmed Steve Cummings has withdrawn from the men’s elite time trial event at the UCI Road World Championships which takes place on Wednesday 20 September.

Cummings explained: “On 15 August I was told I would be reserve for the time trial so I decided to focus on one day races such as the worlds, the Canada GPs and some Italian races. I was surprised to learn eight days before the worlds I had been selected for the time trial. I can't prepare for the world's time trial event in eight days from what I'm coming off. So I don't feel I can do myself justice and would prefer to concentrate on other goals for my team. For me to do a proper job it takes specific training in order to produce a good time trial performance and I haven't been training on my time trial bike as I was concentrating on the road race. Given that I won't be able to give my best, it would be appropriate to give the opportunity to another rider.

“I'm a little surprised and disappointed with not making the world's road race team.  But I have to respect the selection process, and wish all the lads well. I will focus on the remaining Italian races for my team.”


Tao Geoghegan Hart will replace Cummings in the time trial race.

British Cycling’s performance director Stephen Park said: “It’s disappointing that Steve has decided to withdraw himself from the time trial event, but we respect his decision and understand that he is motivated to turn his focus elsewhere. I am sure there will be plenty more opportunities for Steve to represent Great Britain in the future.

“This now gives Tao the chance to compete in the elite men’s time trial which I’m sure is an opportunity he will relish.”