Tour de France: 'That was so hard' - Mark Cavendish plays down sickness fears after Stage 1 struggles - Eurosport

Posted on 29th June 2024 at 18:14 GMT

Mark Cavendish's Tour De France Dream Continues

"It was extremely warm," Cavendish claims that the high temperatures resulted in challenges during Stage 1.

Mark Cavendish from Astana Qazaqstan said the first stage of the Tour de France was very difficult. He managed to finish within the time limit, but he doesn't seem too worried about his health.

The 39-year-old was left behind at the beginning of the race because he had a hard time dealing with the hot weather. TV images showed him getting sick and his team members pouring water on him, which didn't give much hope for his performance in the race.

Cavendish and his teammates worked together to finish the stage, crossing the finish line about 39 minutes after the winner, Romain Bardet, but still within the allowed time.

When Eurosport asked Cavendish if he was having a hard time due to illness or the hot weather, he replied, "I believe it's the heat. I think many people were experiencing the same thing."

He went on to say, "We are confident in our abilities. However, that doesn't mean it's simple. We are not just going around chatting casually."

It was really difficult, but we were determined and didn't stray from our strategy. I wish I could have hung on with the main group for one more climb, but the heat was unbearable.

"We are thrilled to have reached this point, we are feeling good and ready to move on to the next stage."

Cavendish delayed his retirement in order to attempt the Tour again. He only needs one more stage win to hold the record for the most wins ever.

Don't Panic, But Stay Concerned - Mcewen

Worry, not alarm - McEwen supports Cavendish after Stage 1 difficulties

Former professional cyclist and Eurosport commentator Robbie McEwen, who has won 12 stages in the Tour de France, reassured fans that there is no reason to worry about Cavendish's recent difficulties.

"I think there was probably some initial panic because he was attempting to drink but ended up vomiting," McEwen shared on The Breakaway.

"We were wondering if he was sick. Mark Renshaw, his team director, confirmed that he is not ill, he is just finding it tough due to the difficult and hot conditions of the day."

He added, "I'm not completely comfortable with the situation, it's not all as we expected, but we shouldn't be overly worried either. There is reason to be cautious, but no need to panic."

Mark has faced some tough challenges in the Tour and other major cycling races. He has come close to being disqualified due to falling behind on time limits, but always manages to bounce back and come out victorious the next day.

Cavendish has to make it through six more challenging climbs on Sunday before the sprinters get their chance on Stage 3.

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