Hushovd withdraws from Olympics

Hushovd says he is in no fit state to ride at the Olympics

Norwegian cyclist Thor Hushovd has pulled out of the Olympics on Friday after struggling with illness following this year's Tour de France.

"I had a very tough Tour de France and I was sick," said the 30-year-old.

"I wanted to compete [in Beijing], but my team doctor told me I needed to rest. My health is more important."

Hushovd, who won the second stage in the Tour de France last month, took penicillin for 12 days during this year's race.

Hushovd added: "I'm going to rest and start training later to get in shape for the autumn races."

He will be replaced in the Norwegian team by Lars Petter Nordhaug.