Mark Cavendish has said that he does not think that he will retain his Elite Mens Road Race World Champion title.
Cavendish will race in Sunday's World Championship event in Valkenburg but does not expect to win the race and keep hold of the rainbow jersey.
Speaking to Belgian newspaper Het Nieuwsblad, Cavendish said: The chance of retaking my world title is non-existent. "Ten times the Cauberg is just too much for me. We have to be realistic."
"I can't win, but I'm here out of respect for the jersey and because I'll be wearing race number one. I always enjoy racing in the colours of the national team. You're not doing it for money, but for your country - that is special.
Britain are still to name the nine riders who will take part but Cavendish is expected to be in a nine man team with Steve Cummings, Alex Dowsett, Chris Froome, Luke Rowe, Ian Stannard, Ben Swift, Jon Tiernan-Locke and 2012 Tour De France winner Bradley Wiggins.
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