According to a report in the French newspaper Le Monde, race organisers Amaury Sport Organisation have told Team Sky that British star Froome will not be allowed to race.

Froome’s appeal against a drugs test remains unresolved.

Although Froome has always maintained that he did not break any rules, it is reported that ASO have taken a stance to protect the race’s image. It starts next weekend.

A Team Sky spokesperson said: “We are confident that Chris will be riding the Tour as we know he has done nothing wrong.”