Former Polish Cycling Federation (PZKol) deputy chairman Piotr Kosmala made allegations of rape and sex with a minor against "an important person in the cycling circles" last year.

This led to Poland's Sports Minister Witold Bańka urging the PZKol board to resign last year.

The allegations had added to a financial crisis in the organisation, with the Federation’s finances having been frozen.

The Polish Olympic Committee were also placed in charge of providing money to athletes and clubs by the Sports Ministry, given the problems in the PZKol.

Elections for a new Executive Board took place last month, with Banaszek returned as President, having first taken up the post in 2016.

He had reportedly hoped to rebuild the Federation’s relationship with the Sports Ministry but has now stepped down from the post.

"In connection with the formation that has developed around the Polish Cycling Association, I hereby submit, as of today, my resignation from the function of the President of the Polish Cycling Association," Banaszek wrote in a statement.

"My decision is dictated by the good for me, but more valuable than my personal good, the good of cycling,

"At the same time, I would like to emphasize that I do not feel guilty in the field sought by the Minister of Sport and Tourism.

"My hard work for cycling will continue to the authority."

The PZKol Board have accepted Banasek’s resignation and have vowed to continue his work to resolve their financial worries.

"In connection with the honorary decision of the President of the Polish Cycling Association, taken during the convened the meeting of the Board, we declare to continue actions taken by Mr. Dariusz Banaszek related to, among others, sponsorship talks," a PZKol Board statement read.

"We are working with the Polish Olympic Committee and the broadly understood vision of the development of Polish cycling.

"I would like to emphasize that the PZKol Management Board understands that the reasons for taking the above decision by Mr. Dariusz Banaszka, indicated in its justification.

"We believe that Mr. Dariusz Banaszek will be an active member of the cycling community, who he has worked for many years."