Mark Cavendish has pulled out of the Tour de France [Images] before the 15th stage to Prato Nevoso, his Team Columbia said on Sunday.
The Briton, who won four stages in this year's race, will now focus on next month's Olympic Games, where he will take part in the track cycling events.
A pure sprinter, the Manxman has difficulty in the mountains and would have struggled to cope with three gruelling stages in the Alps.
Sunday's stage is the first Alpine stage of the Tour, from Embrun to Prato Nevoso, Italy [Images], with two intimidating ascents.
© Copyright 2008 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of Reuters content, including by framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Reuters. Reuters shall not be liable for any errors or delays in the content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon.
|
Advertisement
Email | 
Print | Get latest news on your desktop