Team Sky boss Sir Dave Brailsford has admitted that it was a "tough decision" to leave Sir Bradley Wiggins out of the nine-man lineup for the Tour de France.
Wiggins, who became the first Brit to secure the yellow jersey in the elite race two years ago, has taken a backseat to Chris Froome.
The 29-year-old will lead the team as he attempts to successfully defend his title following triumph in Paris last year.
"It was a very tough decision," Brailsford told Sky Sports News. "Bradley's been a great champion, but ultimately you've got to look at the facts as they stand now.
When asked about Wiggins's status within the team, Brailsford said: "We'd like to think that there's a future for Bradley."
The 34-year-old will compete in next month's Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
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