Armitstead looks to add world title to Olympic silver

The 23-year-old from Otley, who was seventh in Copenhagen last year, is likely to lead the British women’s team’s challenge following her heroics in London last month.

Rotherham’s Ben Swift, 24, and Sheffield’s Adam Blythe, 22, have been named on the long list of 14 for the men’s team from which nine will be selected.

The provisional list also includes defending world champion Mark Cavendish and Olympic time trial champion Bradley Wiggins, although the latter will not be contesting the time trial given the exertions of the summer.

Burley-in-Wharfedale’s Scott Thwaites, 22, is one of six men in contention to represent Great Britain in the Under-23s’ race.

The world championships run from September 15-23 in Limburg.

Performance director Dave Brailsford said: “Once again we find ourselves in a very fortunate position of having a strong pool of riders across the board from which we can select the final team nearer the time.

“Brad has opted out of riding the time trial at the worlds; this year’s focus for him has been fully on the Tour de France and the Olympics, so to expect him to hold form going into the worlds is a big ask.”