Txema Gonzalez died in a Seville hospital on Friday after going into septic shock following a bacterial infection. The team said the infection entered Gonzalez's blood stream and developed into sepsis that damaged his organs. He was 43.

"Txema's death is devastating to everyone in Team Sky," team principal Dave Brailsford said. "We've lost a good friend, a much respected and valued colleague. We have considered all the elements very carefully and this is the only decision we could take. It's the right one; to show respect to Txema and to look after our team."

Brailsford indicated there was no connection between Gonzalez's illness and a viral infection that forced three of its riders -- Juan Antonio Flecha, John-Lee Augustyn and Ben Swift -- to withdraw from the race.

"The medical conditions are different, but we need to take care of our team," Brailsford said.

Brailsford said Vuelta organizers and the sport's ruling International Cycling Union had been informed of the team's decision "and we are deeply grateful for their cooperation and understanding."