GB chief Shane Sutton resigns in wake of sexism and discrimination allegations

He had already been suspended while his employers looked into alleged comments about Paralympic cyclists.

Jess Varnish, a Great Britain cyclist, had accused the 58-year-old of telling here to “go and have a baby".

Andy Harrison, the programmes director for British Cycling, will take over Sutton's role and will oversee the team in the lead up to the Rio Olympics, which is just 100 days away.

Sutton has denied any wrongdoing. In a statement, published on the British Cycling website, he said: "Today starts the 100-day countdown to the Olympic and Paralympic Games. It is absolutely crucial that, as our athletes begin their final preparations for Rio, they are able to do so free of distraction.

"The developments over the past few days have clearly become a distraction. It is for this reason, and having spoken to friends and family, that I believe it is in the best interests of British Cycling for me to step down from my position as technical director.

"It is important that the review announced by British Cycling and UK Sport now takes place, and I will obviously co-operate fully with this. I have made clear that I reject the specific claims that have been made against me in recent days, and I look forward to taking a full part in the review process so I can respond to the allegations in detail.

British Cycling chief executive Ian Drake said he "understands and respects" Sutton's decision. He added: "As we announced yesterday, we are now putting in place an independent review with UK Sport so that we can investigate the allegations that have been raised in recent days about the culture within the Great Britain Cycling Team.

"We continue to be committed to promoting equality of opportunity and providing a supportive environment within British Cycling.”