Italian ace Aru pulls out of worlds

Milan - Italian rider Fabio Aru announced on Sunday he will not compete in the road race world championships in Austria next week.

"Reluctantly, after consulting with coach Davide Cassani, I've decided to waive the call-up to the Italian national team for the world championships in Innsbruck," the 28-year-old said on his Facebook page.

"Unfortunately, my condition is not where I'd like it to be and, in all likelihood, would not allow me to honour my call up," added the former Tour of Spain winner, who crashed on the stage race earlier this month.

"It's a difficult choice but I think it is right to leave room for those who can count on a better condition right now," he added.

Aru had been selected on a provisional 12-man Italy team for the world championships from September 22 to 30.

Veteran Vincenzo Nibali - who has won all the Grand Tours including the Tour de France in 2014 - has been called up for the Italian team but has also been struggling for form.