Germany team captain Linus Gerdemann pulls out of cycling's road World Championships with a virus infection.

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"Linus Gerdemann is suffering from a virus infection and has to withdraw from the road world championships," the German Cycling Federation said in a statement.

Gerdemann wore the Tour de France yellow jersey for one day in 2007 after winning a mountainous stage to Le Grand Bornand.

Germany's hopes at the September 23-27 championships in Mendrisio, Switzerland, now lie with sprint specialists Gerald Ciolek and Andre Greipel.

Stage 15 of the Vuelta LIVE on Tuesday 15th September at 3pm on British Eurosport (Sky 410 / Virgin Media 521); Also available on your PC via the Eurosport Player - click on the link under the picture to subscribe.