Ed Clancy has announced his return to the Great Britain team pursuit squad for this month's Track Cycling World Championships.
The Yorkshireman will ride in the 4km event alongside Olympic team sprint champions Phil Hindes and Jason Kenny, with either Kian Emadi or Matt Crampton taking up the third-man position.
Sir Chris Hoy served as the third man during the Olympic Games, but the Scot is taking time out from cycling to contemplate his future.
Jess Varnish will miss out on the women's event with a back injury and be replaced by Vicky Williamson, who will partner Becky James.
"The first year of an Olympic cycle is always an interesting one as it gives the opportunity for our young riders to compete alongside the world's best and experience the competitive environment which is crucial for their development," said British Cycling's performance director, Sir Dave Brailsford.
"With that in mind, the focus for the team is to perform to the best of their ability as the route to Rio firmly begins."
The Track Cycling World Championships takes place in Minsk, Belarus from February 20 to 24.
Mark Langshaw
