Nairo Quintana to miss Olympic Games road race

Nairo Quintana will not contest the Olympic Games road race in Rio after struggling with allergies during the Tour de France.

The Colombian was expected to challenge Chris Froome for the yellow jersey this year and, although he finished on the podium, the Movistar rider was never truly in contention for top spot.

Quintana was also touted as a strong contender for gold at Rio 2016, especially with a climbing-heavy route having been planned for the road race.

However, speaking after the end of the Tour, the 25-year-old revealed he would not be travelling to Brazil.

"It's complicated due to my allergies," said Quintana. "After this I'll go see a doctor to get rid of any virus and will take it from there.

"It's a kind of allergy, we need to investigate it.

"I will not race in the Olympic Games and I'll wait to recover.

"This is great, a great success to be on a podium in this state of health. I hope I recover on time and do well in coming races."

The Colombian Cycling Federation confirmed Quintana's absence on Monday, and revealed Jarlinson Pantano - who won stage 15 at the Tour - would take his place.

A statement read: "The Colombian Cycling Federation reports that, according to the prescribing doctor Jesus Hoyos Echavarria, doctor of Movistar Team, rider Nairo Quintana requires a rest period of 20 days later to be tested and medical examinations to determine the drawbacks affecting his fitness.

"Therefore and consequently with the opinion of Dr. Hoyos Echavarria, Quintana will be replaced in the Colombia selection of Olympic route by Jarlinson Pantano."