HTC-Highroad rider Mark Cavendish has withdrawn from the Vuleta a Espana on the race’s fourth stage with around 40km to go.

The 26-year-old had been struggling with the hot weather and began yesterday’s (Tuesday) stage 16 minutes and 48 seconds behind the leaders.

It was revealed earlier this month that the racer is likely to move to Team Sky when HTC folds later this year.

Cavendish became the first British rider to win the Tour de France’s green jersey for best sprinter in July.