Nat Bromhead
Veteran sprinter Mark Cavendish will be riding the 2021 Tour de France, the 36yo making his return to the legendary race after a three year absence.
The most decorated sprinter in TDF history with 30 stage victories, Cavendish replaces Deceuninck – Quick-Step Teammate Sam Bennett who is out due to a knee injury.
“I am delighted to be going back to the Tour de France with Deceuninck – Quick-Step,” said an elated Cavendish.
“The circumstances with Sam could be better – he had a special Tour last year and I am sad for him not being able to defend his green jersey. But at the same time, I am excited to be going back to a race that I have such an affinity with and where I have so much history. It is the biggest bike race in the world, and I am going to do all I can to grab this opportunity with both hands.”
It won’t be an easy ride for Cavendish, with Aussie pocket rocket Caleb Ewan in the form of his life. Caleb will be eager to replicate at least his three TDF stage wins of 2020.
The Gorilla Also In The Mix
Fellow veteran sprinter Andre Greipel of Israel Start-Up Nation has also confirmed he will be lining up at the Tour.
“I feel very well in shape at the moment,” said the 38yo after the team announcement was made. “I am ready for an 11th Tour de France. I am proud to be a part of this line up, especially given the other strong riders in the team.”
