Shane Sutton has confirmed his resignation as technical director of British Cycling.

The 58-year-old was suspended this week after a review into allegations of discrimination was launched.

A report in the Daily Mail claimed that Sutton had made derogatory comments about Para-cyclists, while female rider Jess Varnish previously accused the British Cycling figure of telling her to "go and have a baby".

Today, Sutton, who has denied any wrongdoing, announced that he will step down from his role with immediate effect in order to prevent the Olympic and Paralympic cyclists from getting distracted ahead of Rio 2016.

His statement read: "Today starts the 100-day countdown to the Olympic and Paralympic Games. It is absolutely crucial that, as our athletes begin their final preparations for Rio, they are able to do so free of distraction. The developments over the past few days have clearly become a distraction. It is for this reason, and having spoken to friends and family, that I believe it is in the best interests of British Cycling for me to step down from my position as technical director.

"It is important that the review announced by British Cycling and UK Sport now takes place, and I will obviously co-operate fully with this. I have made clear that I reject the specific claims that have been made against me in recent days, and I look forward to taking a full part in the review process so I can respond to the allegations in detail.

"Cycling is my passion and I have always worked to get the very best out of professional athletes. I am proud of what British Cycling has achieved and I am excited by the potential of the team for Rio. They will always have my full support."

British Cycling chief executive Ian Drake added: "I want to put on record my thanks to Shane for his work with British Cycling and the part he has played in our success. We have a lot to be proud of and, with the Olympics and Paralympics this summer, a lot to look forward to.

"I understand and respect Shane's decision to stand down. His primary focus has always been the athletes, and this decision is something he has taken to allow them to focus on their preparation for Rio."

Sutton joined British Cycling in 2002 and 12 years later was promoted to technical director following the departure of Dave Brailsford.

Programmes director Andy Harrison will now take over.