“The Tour de France is the biggest race of the year and we have been able to come up with a plan that will benefit our young GC riders, and the team ambitions for the season.

“Simon will be given the opportunity to line up in his third Tour de France and the pressure on Esteban will be eased a bit as he prepares for his debut. Adam will continue in his preparations for the Giro in a few weeks’ time.”

Both Yates twins are still set to ride the Vuelta a Espana together, as was the original plan, with a decision to be taken on Chaves – who finished third in last year’s race – after the Tour de France.