Orica-GreenEdge have blamed an administrative error for Simon Yates positive drug test ©Getty Images

International Cycling Union (UCI) World Tour team Orica-GreenEdge have taken “ full responsibility” for British cyclist Simon Yates failing an in-competition drug test after a stage of the Paris-Nice last month.

The 23-year-old rider tested positive for the substance terbutaline, which they state was being used in the ongoing treatment of Yates’ asthma problems.

Yates eventually finished seventh in the 74th edition of Paris-Nice, ending 44 seconds behind the winner and fellow Briton Geraint Thomas.

However, the substance is currently listed on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) banned list, with Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUE) required in order to use the substance.

Orica-GreenEdge have claimed that an “administrative error” was to blame for the positive test and would be looking to support the rider, with the team now seeking to clarify the situation with the UCI.

“The substance was given to Simon Yates in the form an asthma inhaler and accordingly, this was noted by the team doctor on the Doping Control Form, signed at the time of the test,” an Orica-GreenEdge statement read.

“The substance was given in an ongoing treatment of Simon Yates’ documented asthma problems, however, in this case the team doctor made an administrative error by failing to apply for the TUE required for the use of this treatment.

“The use of Terbutaline without a current TUE is the reason it has been flagged as an adverse analytical finding.

Simon Yates won points race gold at the 2014 World Track Cycling Championships in Minsk
Simon Yates won points race gold at the 2014 World Track Cycling Championships in Minsk ©Getty Images

“This is solely based on a human error that the doctor in question has taken full responsibility for.

“There has been no wrong-doing on Simon Yates’ part, the team takes full responsibility for this mistake and wishes to underline their support for Simon during this process.”

Prior to joining the Orica-GreenEdge team in 2014 alongside his twin brother Adam, Yates enjoyed success on the track, including claiming points race gold at the 2013 UCI Track Cycling World Championships in Minsk.

The climber has been tipped as a potential contender for Grand Tours in the future and has been expected to be in contention to secure a place on the British team for the Rio 2016 Olympic men’s road race.

The failed test is more further bad news for British Cycling, following the resignation of technical director Shane Sutton after he had been accused of making derogatory comments towards riders, a claim he denies.

British Cycling have also had to deny that allegations that kit and equipment provided by UK Sport had been given away or sold for profit.