Deignan who announced the pregnancy on Instagram with husband Philip said the plan was to return to racing in 2019 and take a later tilt at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games.
“I am also proud to announce that I am aiming to return to professional cycling in 2019 and 2020," Deignan said. "I have been inspired by countless women who have shown how successful and feasible this challenge could be. My dream of becoming World Champion at home in Yorkshire is still my dream, I will just have more people to share the journey with.
“Thank you to those who have believed in me, my husband, family and friends who all support me. I will continue to ride for Boels-Dolmans Cycling Team, who have been the catalyst to success in my career. I hope to finish my career in 2020 at the pinnacle of my sport, the Tokyo Olympic Games. Bring it on!”
Deignan had earlier announced she would not defend her Commonwealth Games road title on the Gold Coast with the pregnancy now revealed as the reason.
