British triathlon star Jonny Brownlee is out of the sport's inaugural Super League event because of a hip injury.
The 2016 Olympic Games silver medallist was to join his brother and Rio champion Alistair at the head of a world-class field for the March 17-19 race on Hamilton Island.
The new event aims to recreate the success of the F1 series that popularised triathlon in Australia during the 1990s, with spectacular-friendly races over short courses and different formats.
Former Australian star Chris McCormack is one of the team behind the Super League concept, with plans for a series of races later this year.
The Brownlees are the biggest names in the small field of elite men to race at Hamilton Island.
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The series, set to go ahead later this year, will also feature elite women's events.
"The doctors confirmed my hip injury, which is really disappointing as I was in full swing preparing for the race and the hot conditions," a statement from Jonny Brownlee read.
"It is sad to miss out on this opportunity but the great thing about Super League is it's not just this one event.
"Number 05 shall return! I will see you at the next race.
"Super League is not won yet. I will be watching Super League Hamilton Island keenly and if I can't win it, then I hope Alistair does."
