Peter Kennaugh takes break due to mental health issues

"Peter will be taking an indefinite break from professional cycling due to ongoing mental health issues," Bora-Hansgrohe said in a statement.

"The Team supports Peter in his decision and have agreed that this is the best course of action to ensure he can return to full health in the near future."

The 2014 and 2015 British road racing champion was a member of Team Sky when Chris Froome won two of his four Tour de France titles in 2013 and 2015.

The 29-year-old, who won the team pursuit gold medal at the London Olympics with Edward Clancy, Geraint Thomas and Steven Burke, left the British outfit for Bora-Hansgrohe last year.

"I would like to thank everyone at Bora-Hansgrohe for their support and understanding to allow me to recover away from the sport. I wish the team the best of luck for the rest of the season," Kennaugh said.

“The time has come where it is now necessary to become one with my decision to take a break from professional cycling," he posted on Instagram. "After many years of struggling on and off the bike I have made this decision, not only for me but also for my family.

“I need to concentrate on the person that I want to be going forward and to rediscover happiness, motivation and enthusiasm in my day-to-day life.

“I can’t thank enough the people who have helped me through the last couple of years, especially the last couple of weeks. Without having to mention any names, these people will know who they are … I am very thankful for their love and support.

“With hope, I am excited for the years to come and the fresh challenges that lie ahead in and out of sport.”