Defending Tour de France champion Chris Froome has spoken of feeling "grateful and relieved" after being cleared of doping, just days before the start of the 2018 race.

World cycling's governing body, The International Cycling Union (UCI), confirmed on Monday that anti-doping proceedings against the four-time Tour winner had been officially closed, after he tested positive for excess levels of asthma drug salbutamol at the 2017 Vuelta a Espana - a race he won.

Reports on Sunday in French newspaper Le Monde claimed Tour owner Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO) had barred Froome from starting this year's edition of the race - as the Briton waited for a verdict over the adverse finding.

Team Sky stated their confidence that Froome would still take part and have now learned their star man has been cleared of any wrongdoing.

"Grateful and relieved to finally put this chapter behind me," Froome posted on his social channels. "It has been an emotional nine months.

"Thank you all of those who have supported and believed in me throughout."

In a subsequent statement released by Team Sky, Froome added: "I am very pleased that the UCI has exonerated me. While this decision is obviously a big deal for me and the team, it’s also an important moment for cycling.

"I understand the history of this great sport – good and bad. I have always taken my leadership position very seriously and I always do things the right way. I meant it when I said that I would never dishonour a winner's jersey and that my results would stand the test of time. 

"I have never doubted that this case would be dismissed for the simple reason that I have known throughout I did nothing wrong. I have suffered with asthma since childhood. I know exactly what the rules are regarding my asthma medication and I only ever use my puffer to manage my symptoms within the permissible limits

"Of course, the UCI had to examine these test results from the Vuelta. Unfortunately, the details of the case did not remain confidential, as they should have done. And I appreciate more than anyone else the frustration at how long the case has taken to resolve and the uncertainty this has caused. I am glad it’s finally over.

"I am grateful for all the support I have had from the team and from many fans across the world. Today’s ruling draws a line. It means we can all move on and focus on the Tour de France."

Team Sky principal, Dave Brailsford, was also keen to move on from the case ahead of the start of the Tour on Saturday.

"Chris has proved he is a great champion – not only on the bike but also by how he has conducted himself during this period," said Brailsford. "It has not been easy, but his professionalism, integrity and good grace under pressure have been exemplary and a credit to the sport. 
 
"The greatest bike race in the world starts in five days. We can't wait to get racing again and help Chris win it for a record-equalling fifth time."