Cervélo TestTeam issued an eleventh hour statement indicating that its rider Xavier Florencio has been pulled from the Tour de France roster. It is not yet clear whether the team will be able to replace Florencio within 24 hours of the prologue start in Rotterdam.

"Although he was nominated for the team, the team has decided to immediately withdraw him due to a violation of internal policies," a team statement read.

"Consistent with the team’s internal values, TestTeam riders are required to obtain permission from the team’s medical staff before they can use any supplements or medication."

At issue is Florencio's use of a substance containing ephedrine to treat a saddle sore. He had not cleared the use of the substance with team doctors.

"This usage without clearance violates the internal policy."

Florencio has been suspended from competition pending a more thorough evaluation of the situation by team management.