Sam Bennett's preparations for the Tour de France were dealt a blow after an injury forced him out of this week's Tour of Belgium.
The Carrick-On-Suir cyclist suffered a knee injury in training and will take a rest ahead of his defence of the green jersey he won last year.
Bennett, who has racked up seven stage wins this year, is trying to peak for the start of the Grand Tour on June 26.
“Following a small incident in training last weekend, Sam Bennett has incurred a problem with his right knee,” Bennett's team Deceuninck-Quick-Step confirmed.
“After consultation with our medical team, it has been decided that he will not start this week’s Belgium Tour and will instead take some rest ahead of the Tour de France.
“Sam will be replaced on Deceuninck – Quick-Step’s roster for the five-day race by Mark Cavendish.”
