Lloyd released by Omega Pharma-Lotto

The team strongly clarified that doping was not behind the decision but hinted at unspecified behavioral reasons for the termination of the specialist climber.

"We wish to inform you that the collaboration between Matthew Lloyd and the Omega Pharma-Lotto team is discontinued," team Manager Marc Seargent said in a released tatement.

"Recent incidents during the first races disputed in 2011 by Matthew for our team made this collaboration impossible.

"Our team's image cannot be connected to Matthew's behaviour any more, therefore the unanimous decision taken by the BCC board of directors. We follow a policy of zero tolerance of which we cannot divert.

"For the sake of clarity: this has nothing to do with the use of forbidden products. We also want to respect Matthew's privacy."

The 2008 Australian Road Race Champion had a breakthrough year in 2010 after winning a stage and overall climbers jersey at the Giro d'Italia.

Lloyd has struggled with injury and form this season after breaking his shoulder in a late 2010 incident with a Melbourne tram, and injuring his knee after being hit by a car during a training ride in Italy in Feburary.

He was set to rider the Tour of Catalunya and Tour of the Basque country as preparation for the Giro but did not start either races.