"Of course, this was not how I wanted my Tour de France to end, but I agree that it is the best thing for me in the current circumstances," the 23-year-old said in a press release from the Ineos Grenadiers stable.

Bernal had back problems before the tour but still managed to keep up with the lead at the beginning of the classic stage race.

Recently, however, he has lost so much that a new title is no longer possible to take.

The stable says in the press release that they feel it is wise to let Bernal drop out and set new goals for the rest of the season.