Sutton A Loss To Cycling, Says Brailsford

Sir Dave Brailsford has said Shane Sutton's departure is a big blow for British Cycling, but is sure the former technical director has left the team in good shape for Rio.

Sutton resigned on Wednesday afternoon after sexism claims made by rider Jess Varnish were followed by accusations of using derogatory and bullying comments towards para-cyclists.

The 58-year-old Australian denies the allegations, but announced he would leave his post, stating it was paramount the athletes prepare for this year's Olympics and Paralympics "free of distraction".

Team Sky boss Brailsford, who quit as performance director of British Cycling in April 2014, said: "Shane is one of the best tactical and technical coaches I have worked with. His contribution to the success of British Cycling has been immense.

"His sole focus has always been the athletes, and so it's understandable that if he feels this has become a distraction to their preparation for Rio he has put the interests of the team first and decided to stand down.

"Any team would miss a coach of his calibre and inevitably this will be a loss to the organisation at this time in the Olympic cycle. However, I am sure he will have established all the structures required for the team to optimise their chances of success in Rio."

Before Sutton's resignation, British Cycling said it intended to hold an internal investigation into the allegations and a separate review of the organisation's performance programme.

Sutton is determined to cooperate fully in a bid to clear his name.

He said: "Cycling is my passion and I have always worked to get the very best out of professional athletes. I am proud of what British Cycling has achieved and I am excited by the potential of the team for Rio. They will always have my full support."

Double Olympic champion Geraint Thomas said on Wednesday night there was a "problem with inequality in cycling as a whole that needs to be addressed".

The 29-year-old Team Sky rider wrote on his Facebook page: "With regards to recent events I'd like to say there is absolutely no place for inequality in sport, and the recent accusations made against British cycling need to be looked at and treated seriously.

"However, I would like to talk about my personal experience and say that Shane is one of the main reasons I am where I am today. He has always wanted the best for British riders, and gone the extra mile for us. He's done more than most for British Cycling.

"The inequity issues won't finish with Shane's resignation/investigation, there is a problem with inequality in cycling as a whole that needs to be addressed."