UCI to 'closely follow' Team Sky situation

Tour de France champions Geraint Thomas and Chris Froome both have contracts with the team that should last until 2021.

"In relation with Sky's leaving as the team main sponsor, while it appears premature to make projections at this stage, the UCI will closely follow the evolution of the situation and assess whether concrete risks may be identified and take action if appropriate," the UCI told Cyclingnews in a brief statement.

Cycling's governing body have often found themselves duelling with Team Sky, most notably during a legal battle after Froome returned an adverse analytical finding for salbutamol.

However, the UCI were quick to pay tribute to the team's achievements.

"Sky's presence in cycling since 2008 has contributed to the development of our sport, both in Great Britain and beyond," the UCI said.

"Team Sky has become a high-performing team on the road, clocking up success after success, including several victories at the Tour de France. We congratulate Sky and the confidence it has put in cycling over the last decade."