Cervélo TestTeam rider Heinrich Haussler (AUS) has decided not to participate in the UCI World Championships this year, which will be held on October 3 in Geelong, Australia. The 26-year-old, who was in the initial selection of the Australian Cycling Federation, has been plagued by knee problems since spring and underwent an operation in June.

“If I were to go to the start line at the World Championships, I would want to be 100% in shape and able to ride for the victory. This will unfortunately not be possible for me,” said Haussler. “It would have been a dream to start on home soil but I am not ready yet. My main focus is now already on next season, where I want to perform well again in my favourite spring classic races.”

Haussler, who is recovering well, is planning to be back in competition this autumn but only when he is fit and ready to race.