Live Cycling: Tour de France Episode Guide

Episode Guide

• Presentation

  James Richardson introduces live coverage from London as the teams are presented ahead of the 2007 staging of the Tour de France, which starts in the English capital tomorrow

• Prologue

  The most famous race on the cycling calendar gets under way with a 7km prologue time-trial in Strasbourg. Reigning champion Lance Armstrong retired after winning a seventh successive Tour title, and the opportunity is there for the riders to add themselves to list of victors that includes such legends as Jacques Anquetil, Eddy Merckx, Bernard Hinault and Miguel Indurain

• Prologue

  Coverage of the most famous race on the cycling calendar gets under way with a 7.9km prologue time-trial in London, starting at Whitehall and ending down The Mall. This is only the third time the race has featured stages in England and British riders Bradley Wiggins and David Millar will be particularly keen to start in winning fashion. Presented by James Richardson, with commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly

• Stage 10

  The true test begins for the riders today in this 10th stage from Limoges to Saint-Flour, as they head into the mountains. Today's 237km race is the longest of the Tour and will provide a stern challenge for all the competitors. Lance Armstrong is bidding for a record-breaking sixth successive Tour title, but Jan Ullrich will fancy his chances of ending the American's reign after recently winning the Tour of Switzerland

• Stage 10

  Coverage of the 10th stage of the race, a 190.5km journey from Cambo-les-Bains to Pau. The riders get their first taste of the Pyrenees here as they head into the mountains of southern France, and the climbers will be geared up to make their push over the next few days. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly, and roadside reports from Christi Anderson

• Stage 10

  Coverage of the 10th stage of the race, a 229.5km journey from Tallard to Marseille. Despite progressing across the Alps, this is a relatively flat stage for the riders following three days of tough climbs and a sprint to the line is expected at the finish outside the Stade Velodrome. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly

• Stage 10

  Commentary on stage 10, as the riders travel 194.5km from Limoges to Issoudun

• Stage 10

  Le Tour gets under way again following the first rest day, with the riders travelling 194.5km from Limoges to Issoudun for stage 10. This is a relatively straightforward stage for the pack to ease themselves back into the saddle, with Mark Cavendish expected to challenge in a sprint finish to dampen any Bastille Day celebrations for the French

• Stage 10 2008

  Coverage of the 10th stage, featuring a 156km journey from Pau to Hautacam, as the riders face another tough test in the saddle ahead of the first rest day. This may be a relatively short stage, but it won't be one the riders are relishing as the Col de Tourmalet awaits at over 2,000m, and any slip-up by the favourites could see their chances dashed even at this early juncture

• Stage 10: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's 10th stage of the 93rd Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch on the 190.5km journey from Cambo-les-Bains to Pau

• Stage 10: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's 10th stage of the 94th Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch on the 229.5km journey from Tallard to Marseille

• Stage 10: Review

  David Duffield discusses the 10th stage of the race, a 190.5km journey from Cambo-les-Bains to Pau, featuring highlights of the major talking-points

• Stage 11

  The 11th stage of this year's race, a 164km ride from Saint-Flour to Figeac. After yesterday's first day in the mountains, the riders face another tortuous day in the saddle - can any of the climbing specialists take advantage and cut the gap between themselves and the leader?

• Stage 11

  Commentary on stage 11, as the riders travel 192km from Vatan to Saint-Fargeau

• Stage 11

  Stage 11 marks the halfway point of the tour as the riders travel 192km from Vatan to Saint-Fargeau, over some of the flattest terrain of the race. The sprinters will be out in force in anticipation of picking up points toward the Green Jersey, which was claimed last year by Oscar Freire of Spain

• Stage 11

  Le Tour resumes following a rest day with the 11th stage, a 167.5km journey from Lannemezan to Foix

• Stage 11

  Coverage of the 11th stage of the race, a 182.5km journey from Marseille to Montpellier, as the riders progress along the southern coast of France. The sprinters should come to the fore again on the flat terrain, with the coastal winds expected to provide the biggest test on this stage. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly

• Stage 11

  Coverage of the 11th stage of the race, a 206.5km journey from Tarbes to Val d'Aran in Spain, as the true test of the tour continues in the mountains. The high altitude in the Pyrenees tends to bring the leading riders to the fore as the early pacesetters struggle with the heat and intensity of the climbs. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly, and roadside reports from Christi Anderson

• Stage 11 2008

  Le Tour resumes following a rest day with the 11th stage, a 167.5km journey from Lannemezan to Foix. This stage follows a winding path at the foot of the Pyrenees and should see plenty of action at the front as the riders try to take this opportunity to gain some valuable time on the leaders

• Stage 11: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's 11th stage of the 93rd Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch on the 206.5km journey from Tarbes to Val d'Aran in Spain

• Stage 11: Review

  David Duffield discusses the tenth stage of the race, a 206.5km journey from Tarbes to Val d'Aran in Spain, featuring highlights of the major talking-points

• Stage 12

  Coverage of the 12th stage of the race, a a 211.5km journey from Luchon to Carcassonne, as the riders continue their progress in the south of France. Floyd Landis is one of many stars tipped to take Lance Armstrong's title but the American will need to cope with the gruelling mountain stages if he is to win Le Tour for the first time. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly, and roadside reports from Christi Anderson

• Stage 12

  Coverage of the 12th stage of the race, a 178.5km journey from Montpellier to Castres, as the riders continue their progress in the south of France. The riders are gradually heading toward the Pyrenees and the mountainous stages that follow are sure to be praying on their minds as they tackle the Montee de la Jeante with 50km of the stage remaining. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly

• Stage 12

  Coverage of the 12th stage, which takes the riders along 211.5km of relatively flat terrain from Tonnerre to Vittel. This is the third consecutive stage that will appeal to the sprinters, with only the inconvenience of several Category Three and Four ascents to upset their rhythm. Britain's Mark Cavendish was successful at this corresponding point last year, winning his third stage of the tour in a sprint finish ahead of French hope Sebastien Chavanel

• Stage 12

  Commentary on the 12th stage of the famous race, a journey of 168.5km from Lavelanet to Narbonne

• Stage 12 2008

  Coverage of the 12th stage of the famous race, a journey of 168.5km from Lavelanet to Narbonne. After three stages in and around the Pyrenees the riders will be happy of the respite of this relatively straightforward stage, and the sprinters will be battling it out for points to count toward the race for the Green Jersey

• Stage 12: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's 12th stage of the 92nd Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch on the 187km journey from Briancon to Digne-les-Bains

• Stage 12: Review

  David Duffield discusses the 12th stage of the race, a 211.5km journey from Luchon to Carcassonne, featuring highlights of the major talking-points

• Stage 13

  Coverage of the 13th stage of the race, a 230km journey from Beziers to Montelimar, as the riders face the longest day in the saddle in this year's tour. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly, and roadside reports from Christi Anderson

• Stage 13

  The 13th stage begins in Lannemezan and finishes 206km later in Plateau de Beille. This is one of the most scenic stages on the Tour, but the riders won't get the chance to admire the scenery with so much at stake now that proceedings have entered the final week. Commentary by Mike Smith and Sean Kelly

• Stage 13

  The peloton heads further into the north west of France for stage 13 of the most prestigious race in the sport, tackling the 200km route from Vittel to Colmar. The relatively straightforward progress of the last three days is likely to be halted with this stage, which includes the Category One Col du Platzerwasel and the Category Two Col du Firstplan before a downhill sprint to the finish

• Stage 13

  Coverage of the 13th stage of the race, a 54km individual time-trial beginning and ending in Albi in the south of France. The second of three time-trials will prove a major test of the leader's chances of winning Le Tour, with the favourite sure to see this as an opportunity to gain valuable time ahead of the Pyrenees stages. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly

• Stage 13 2008

  Coverage of stage 13, a 182km journey from Narbonne to Nimes, as the riders look set to enjoy another flat stage before the forthcoming test in the Alps. The sprinters in particular will be looking to boost their positions with the Alps looming large in their minds, while the leaders aim to keep out of trouble among the peloton

• Stage 13: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's 13th stage of the 92nd Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch on the 173.5km journey from Miramas to Montpellier

• Stage 13: Review

  David Duffield discusses the 13th stage of the race, a 230km journey from Beziers to Montelimar, featuring highlights of the major talking-points

• Stage 14

  The 14th stage of the Tour is a rest from the gruelling mountain stages, as the riders travel along the south coast of France for 193km between the towns of Carcassonne and Nimes. With tomorrow being a day of rest, the leading competitors know this is the ideal opportunity to get a victory under their belts before recharging their batteries for the final few days. Commentary by Mike Smith and Sean Kelly

• Stage 14

  Coverage of the 14th stage of the race, a 180.5km journey from Montelimar to Gap, as the riders head into the Alps for the first time this year. A rest day following this stage allows the riders to prepare themselves for the tough challenges ahead, and the climbers are expected to come to the fore here. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly, and roadside reports from Christi Anderson

• Stage 14

  The third week of the race gets under way in Colmar, where the riders start stage 14, which is scheduled to finish 199km later in Besancon. This is the last stage before the competitors reach the Alps and should not cause too many problems ahead of the major tests to come, with the sprinters savouring the flat terrain before the mountains

• Stage 14 2008

  Coverage of stage 14, a 194.5km journey from Nimes to Digne-les-Bains, as the cyclists tackle the final flat stage before reaching the Alps. The winding roads could cause problems for the riders as they pick up speed along the stage, with the sprinters determined to make the most of the terrain ahead of a gruelling few days to come

• Stage 14: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's 14th stage of the 92nd Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch on the 220.5km journey from Agde to Ax-3 Domaines

• Stage 14: Review

  David Duffield discusses the 14th stage of the race, a 180.5km journey from Montelimar to Gap, featuring highlights of the major talking-points

• Stage 15

  Coverage of the 15th stage of the race, a 187km journey from Gap to L'Alpe d'Huez, as the riders continue in the Alps. This is one of the most eagerly awaited and spectacular stages of the race, with the riders facing the gruelling trek high into the mountains, trying to avoid the massed ranks of spectators on the narrow, winding roads. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly, and roadside reports from Christi Anderson

• Stage 15

  The riders head into the Swiss Alps for stage 15, which starts in the French town of Pontarlier and ends 207.5km later in Verbier, Switzerland. A rest day follows this stage, but the riders will need to have their minds fully focused on a journey that features six climbs, including a Category One 830m ascent to the finish line

• Stage 15

  The riders get back on their saddles following yesterday's rest day for the 15th stage of the Tour, which gets under way in Valreas and finishes 181km later in Villard-de-Lans. Lance Armstrong is expected to be among the front-runners, as he continues his quest for his sixth successive Tour de France title. Commentary by Mike Smith and Sean Kelly

• Stage 15

  Coverage of the 15th stage of the race, a 205.5km journey from Lezat-sur-Leze to Saint-Lary Soulan (Pla d'Adet). With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly, and roadside reports from Christi Anderson

• Stage 15 2008

  Coverage of stage 15, a journey of 183km from Embrun to Prato Nevoso in Italy, and one which takes the riders into the Alps for the first time. Given the size of the task ahead of them the competitors will be glad of the prospect of a rest day following this stage, as the Col de Agnel at over 2,700m is likely to cause problems for all but the most resolute of riders

• Stage 15: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's 15th stage of the 93rd Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch on the 187km journey from Gap to L'Alpe d'Huez

• Stage 15: Review

  David Duffield discusses the 15th stage of the race, a 187km journey from Gap to L'Alpe d'Huez, featuring highlights of the major talking-points. With analysis from Sean Kelly and Richard Virenque

• Stage 16

  The 16th stage of the Tour is an individual time trial and takes places over 16km between Bourg d'Oisans and L'Alpe d'Huez. The time trial is much shorter than usual at this stage of the Tour, but the steep gradient of the infamous mountain will provide a challenge for the cyclists. Commentary by Mike Smith and Sean Kelly

• Stage 16

  The riders get back in the saddle for stage 16 following their second and final rest day, as they tackle the 159km in the Alps from Martigny to Bourg-Saint-Maurice. This is a unique and daunting stage for those still in with a chance of claiming the Yellow Jersey, as it passes through three countries - Switzerland, Italy and France - and features a climb of over 30km to the Col du Grand-Saint-Bernard

• Stage 16

  Coverage of the 16th stage of the race, a 218.5km journey from Orthez to Gourette, as the riders face their final day in the Pyrenees. This is the last chance for the climbers to enjoy the most difficult terrain and could also be the last opportunity for those lagging behind the leaders to make a serious impression in the standings. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly

• Stage 16 2008

  Coverage of the 16th stage of the race, which takes the riders 157km from the Italian town of Cuneo to Jausiers in France. This is likely to be a pivotal stage of the race as it features two energy-sapping climbs, including the Col de la Bonnette at over 2,800m and a hair-raising descent along narrow, winding roads to the finish line

• Stage 16: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's 16th stage of the 93rd Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch on the 182km journey from Bourg d'Oisans to La Toussuire

• Stage 16: Review

  David Duffield discusses the 16th stage of the race, a 182km journey from Bourg d'Oisans to La Toussuire, featuring highlights of the major talking-points

• Stage 17

  Coverage of the 17th stage of the race, a 200.5km journey from Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne to Morzine, the last of this year's stages in the Alps. The climbers will need to make the most of this last chance to take valuable time from the sprinters, with just three stages to follow, on the relatively flat roads heading to Paris. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly, and roadside reports from Christi Anderson

• Stage 17

  Commentary on the 17th stage of the race, a 210.5km journey from Embrun to L'Alpe d'Huez, which represents the final full day in the Alps

• Stage 17

  Coverage of stage 17 of the prestigious race, a gruelling 169.5km journey through the Alps from Bourg-Saint-Maurice to Le Grand-Bornand. Just four more stages follow this one, which could potentially have a major bearing on the final standings, as it features four Category One climbs

• Stage 17

  The 17th stage of the Tour covers 205km of alpine roads between Bourg d'Oisans and Le Grand-Bornand. Jan Ullrich was champion back in 1997, but has since failed to win the title for a second time, mainly because of Lance Armstrong's dominance. However, many feel the German will get the better of the American this year, and the T-Mobile rider will hope to boost his chances with a stage victory today. Commentary by Mike Smith and Sean Kelly

• Stage 17 2008

  Coverage of the 17th stage of the race, a 210.5km journey from Embrun to L'Alpe d'Huez, which represents the final full day in the Alps. The climb to the top of L'Alpe d'Huez is always one of the highlights of the race and the riders will be desperate not to lose time with just a further four stages to follow

• Stage 17: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's 17th stage of the 93rd Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch on the 200.5km journey from Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne to Morzine

• Stage 17: Review

  David Duffield discusses the 17th stage of the race, a 200.5km journey from Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne to Morzine, featuring highlights of the major talking-points

• Stage 18

  The 18th stage of the Tour begins the journey toward Paris, as competitors travel 167km between Annemasse and Lons-le-Saunier. Lance Armstrong is expected to bolster his position at the front of the field today, as he continues his quest for a sixth successive Tour de France title. Commentary by Mike Smith and Sean Kelly

• Stage 18

  Coverage of the 18th stage of the race, a 197km journey from Morzine to Macon. There are just two stages to follow this one and most of the riders will be happy to leave the Alps behind them and head for the flatter terrain of the Burgundy region. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly, and roadside reports from Christi Anderson

• Stage 18

  Commentary on the 18th stage of the race, featuring a 196.5km journey from Bourg-d'Oisans to Saint-Etienne

• Stage 18

  The riders take a break from the mountains with stage 18, an individual time-trial of 40km around Lake Annecy. This test is traditionally the penultimate stage of the race, but has been brought forward this year to increase the chances of movement at the top of the standings, with a further stage in the mountains still on the riders' minds

• Stage 18 2008

  Coverage of the 18th stage of the race, a 196.5km journey from Bourg-d'Oisans to Saint-Etienne. The stage begins with a sharp descent that will test the riders immediately and the peloton will need to keep an eye on possible breakaways following their recent exertions in the mountains

• Stage 18: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's 18th stage of the 94th Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch on the 211km journey from Cahors to Angouleme

• Stage 18: Review

  David Duffield discusses the 18th stage of the race, a 197km journey from Morzine to Macon, featuring highlights of the major talking-points

• Stage 19

  Coverage of the 19th and penultimate stage of the race, a 57km individual time-trial from Le Creusot to Montceau-les-Mines. Only tomorrow's journey to the heart of Paris remains, with this stage the last serious chance for riders to gain valuable seconds on their rivals. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly, and roadside reports from Christi Anderson

• Stage 19

  Stage 19 takes the peloton along a 178km route from Bourgoin-Jallieu to Aubenas, a relatively straightforward stage following the riders' recent travails. A Category Two climb awaits toward the end of the stage, followed by a steep and dangerous descent to the finish line

• Stage 19

  Commentary on the 19th stage of the race, a 165.5km journey from Roanne to Montlucon

• Stage 19 2008

  Coverage of the 19th stage of the race, a 165.5km journey from Roanne to Montlucon. This is a stage that the sprinters should enjoy after their toil in the Alps and the relatively flat terrain may well see a fast pace and several riders trying to attack from the front

• Stage 19: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's 19th stage of the 93rd Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch on the 57km individual time-trial from Le Creusot to Montceau-les-Mines

• Stage 19: Review

  David Duffield discusses the 19th stage of the race, a 57km individual time-trial from Le Creusot to Montceau-les-Mines, featuring highlights of the major talking-points

• Stage 20

  Coverage of the 20th and final stage of the race, a 154.5km journey from Sceaux-Antony to the finish at the Champs-Elysees in Paris. The tour may have been dogged by controversy but the winner will have achieved something special, as their name is added to the list of legendary riders to have won the most prestigious race on the calendar. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly, and roadside reports from Christi Anderson

• Stage 20

  Coverage of the 20th and final stage of the race, a 146km journey from Marcoussis to the finish at the Champs-Elysees in Paris. The tour has produced its usual share of drama and tension, and the winner will have achieved something special, as their name is added to the list of legendary riders to have won the most prestigious race on the calendar. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly

• Stage 20

  Coverage of the 20th and penultimate stage of the race, which will test the riders to the limit on a mountainous 167km journey from Montelimar to Mont Ventoux. This challenging stage has been purposely added at such at late juncture to provide the leaders with a final test of their credentials, especially with the stage-ending climb to the top of Mont Ventoux, which marks the highest point in Provence

• Stage 20 2008

  Coverage of the 20th and penultimate stage of the race, a 53km individual time-trial from Cerilly to Saint-Armand-Montrond. This is likely to be the last chance for the riders to take the lead in the standings, with only the final stage into Paris to follow. Last year Alberto Contador held off the challenge of Cadel Evans and Levi Leipheimer to head into the concluding day with a narrow lead

• Stage 20: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's 20th stage of the 92nd Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch on the 55km individual time-trial in Saint-Etienne

• Stage 20: Review

  David Duffield discusses the 20th and final stage of the race, a 154.5km journey from Sceaux-Antony to the finish at the Champs-Elysees in Paris, featuring highlights of the major talking-points

• Stage 21

  Coverage of the 21st and final stage of the race, a 144km journey from Corbeil-Essonnes to the traditional finish along the Champs-Elysees in Paris. The race has concluded on the Champs-Elysees since 1975 and the crowds will be out in force once again, with American Lance Armstrong expected to clinch his seventh successive victory before retiring. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly, and roadside reports from Christi Anderson

• Stage 21

  Commentary on the 21st and final stage of the prestigious race, featuring a 164km journey from Montereau-Fault-Yonne to the Champs-Elysees in Paris

• Stage 21

  Coverage of the 21st and final stage of the prestigious race, featuring a 164km journey from Montereau-Fault-Yonne to the Champs-Elysees in Paris. The race has concluded on the Champs-Elysees since 1975 and the crowds will be out in force once again, with the race leader aiming to keep out of trouble and clinch the Yellow Jersey

• Stage 21 2008

  Further coverage of the 21st and final stage of the race, a 143km journey from Etampes to the traditional finish along the Champs-Elysees in Paris. The race has concluded on the Champs-Elysees since 1975 and the crowds will be out in force once again, hoping for some late drama as the quest to succeed Alberto Contador as champion reaches a climax

• Stage 21: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's 21st and final stage of the 92nd Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch on the 144km journey from Corbeil-Essonnes to the Champs-Elysees in Paris

• Stage 21: Review

  David Duffield presents highlights of the 21st and final stage of the race, a 144km journey from Corbeil-Essonnes to the Champs-Elysees in Paris, where the man in front will be hoping to avoid trouble and let the peloton lead him home. With analysis from Sean Kelly and Richard Virenque

• Stage Eight

  Coverage of the eighth stage of the race, a 181km journey from Saint-Meen-le-Grand to Lorient. The riders have the luxury of a rest day following this stage as they fly to Bordeaux for the start of the next stage, and they'll be able to give their all on another gruelling day in the saddle. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly, and roadside reports from Christi Anderson

• Stage Eight

  The second week of the world's most prestigious cycle race gets under way in the Pyrenees, as the riders tackle the 176.5km journey on stage eight from Andorre-La-Vieille to Saint-Girons. This is the second of three days spent in the mountains along the border with Spain and two Category One climbs need to be negotiated before a downhill sprint finish

• Stage Eight

  Stage eight, a 168km ride from Lamballe to Quimper. The riders have a rest day tomorrow, so those chasing the Yellow Jersey holder will all be pushing hard today as they bid to cut precious seconds off the gap between themselves and the leader

• Stage Eight 2008

  Coverage of stage eight from Figeac to Toulouse, a journey of 172.5km and the last before the riders tackle the Pyrenees. Most of the field are sure to want a relatively straightforward day in the saddle, recovering from their exertions in the Massif Central and ahead of the mountain stages to come

• Stage Eight: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's eighth stage of the 93rd Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch on the 181km journey from Saint-Meen-le-Grand to Lorient

• Stage Eight: Review

  David Duffield discusses the eighth stage of the race, a 181km journey from Saint-Meen-le-Grand to Lorient, featuring highlights of the major talking-points

• Stage Five

  Coverage of the fifth stage of this year's tour, where the riders face a 225km journey from Beauvais to Caen. Iban Mayo is one of the favourites in a race that has been overshadowed by the suspensions of several leading riders on the eve of Le Tour, and the Euskatel-Euskadi is looking to take advantage. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly

• Stage Five

  The fifth stage of the tour begins in the south-coast town of Le Cap d'Agde and takes in 196.5km of road before reaching Perpignan. Mark Cavendish became the first British rider to win four stages of the Tour de France when he did so last year, with the first of his successes coming at this point of the race. Cavendish abandoned the tour after stage 14 to concentrate on the Beijing Olympics, but is bidding to complete the full distance this time around

• Stage Five

  Coverage of the fifth stage of this year's tour, where the riders face a 182.5km journey from Chablis to Autun. This is the first stage that features a change in terrain for the riders, who face several inclines and winding roads that could lead to the first break by the leaders after a number of flat stages. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly

• Stage Five 2008

  Coverage of stage five from Cholet to Chateauroux, the longest of this year's race at 232km, but one that shouldn't pose the riders too many problems. The flat terrain is likely to lead to several attempted breakaways, although at this early stage of the race the peloton are unlikely to allow any rider to build up too much of a lead

• Stage Five: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's fifth stage of the 94th Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch on the 182.5km journey from Chablis to Autun

• Stage Five: Review

  David Duffield discusses the fifth stage of the race, a 225km journey from Beauvais to Caen, featuring highlights of the major talking-points

• Stage Four

  Coverage of the fourth stage of the tour, a 207km journey from Huy in Belgium to Saint-Quentin in France. This is a relatively flat stage that should favour the sprinters, and Bradley Wiggins will be among those expected to be near the front of the peloton as the finish line approaches. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly

• Stage Four

  The tour spends a day in Montpellier for stage four, as the riders tackle the roads in and around the city in a 39km team time-trial, a discipline returning to the race this year. Defending champion Carlos Sastre Candil of Spain will be a dependable figure for his new team Cervelo TestTeam in this stage, while Britain's leading representative Mark Cavendish will be a strong contender for Team Columbia-High Road

• Stage Four 2008

  The fourth stage of Le Tour is the first of two individual time-trials, with the riders in the saddle for 29.5km, starting and ending in Cholet. The town of Cholet was last used in the 1998 tour and the locals will be out on force on the streets as the riders tackle a route that allows them to get their speed up along two lengthy straight roads

• Stage Four: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's fourth stage of the 93rd Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch on the 207km journey from Huy in Belgium to Saint-Quentin in France

• Stage Four: Review

  David Duffield discusses the fourth stage of the race, a 207km journey from Huy in Belgium to Saint-Quentin in France, featuring highlights of the major talking-points

• Stage Nine

  Coverage of the ninth stage of the race, a 169.5km journey from Bordeaux to Dax. The riders should be suitably refreshed following the first rest day of the tour, and the likes of Iban Mayo will be desperate to avoid any trouble as he aims for his first win in Le Tour. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly, and roadside reports from Christi Anderson

• Stage Nine

  Coverage of the ninth stage of the race, a 159.5km journey from Val d'Isere to Briancon. The riders should be suitably refreshed following the first rest day of the tour, and the likes of Alejandro Valverde will be desperate to avoid any trouble as he aims for his first win in Le Tour. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly

• Stage Nine

  Coverage of the ninth stage marks the final passage through the Pyrenees, stretching 160.5km from Saint-Gaudens to Tarbes along the south-west coast of France. The first of two rest days follows this stage and the riders may be in need of a break after tackling the 2,115m Col du Tourmalet and the dangerous descent that follows

• Stage Nine

  The ninth stage of this year's race, a 160km ride from Saint-Leonard-de-Noblat to Gueret. Fresh from their rest day yesterday, the chasing pack will be eager to cut the gap between themselves and the Yellow Jersey holder on this relatively short stage

• Stage Nine 2008

  Coverage of the ninth stage of this year's race, as the riders tackle the 224km journey from Toulouse to Bagneres-de-Bigorre. This is the first of two consecutive days in the Pyrenees and the first major test for the favourites' ambitions, with the daunting Col de Peyresourde and the Col d'Aspin awaiting the riders toward the end of the stage

• Stage Nine: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's ninth stage of the 93rd Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch on the 169.5km journey from Bordeaux to Dax

• Stage Nine: Review

  David Duffield discusses the ninth stage of the race, a 169.5km journey from Bordeaux to Dax, featuring highlights of the major talking-points

• Stage One

  Coverage of the opening stage of the tour, a 184.5km journey beginning and ending in Strasbourg, in the 93rd hosting of the event. With Lance Armstrong having retired from the sport, all eyes will be on the various riders tipped to be his long-term successor, with Alejandro Valverde and Iban Mayo among those tipped to excel. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly

• Stage One

  Coverage of the opening stage of the 94th tour, a 203km journey from London to Canterbury. The cyclists head to France after this stage and will be keen to avoid losing any time as they head through the English countryside, with the sprinters having an early opportunity to stake their claim for the Green Jersey. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly

• Stage One

  The 96th staging of the world's most prestigious bike race gets under way this afternoon with a 15.5km individual time-trial in the Principality of Monaco. Another 20 stages await the riders following today, as Carlos Sastre Candil, competing with new team Cervelo TestTeam, bids to become the first Spaniard to win successive tours since Miguel Indurain's dominant period between 1991 and 1995

• Stage One

  The prestigious event finally hits the roads today, as stage one takes the participants on the 195km ride from Liege to Charleroi. Although Lance Armstrong is favourite to take his sixth consecutive Tour title over the next three weeks, some people are predicting five-time runner-up Jan Ullrich will finally get the better of the American. Ullrich was pushing the US Postal Service rider all the way last year, but a fall on the penultimate day cost him dearly, and now the T-mobile team leader will be eager to exact his revenge

• Stage One 2008

  Coverage of the opening stage of the 95th Tour de France, a 197.5km journey from Brest to Plumelec. Le Tour has been dogged by controversy in recent years, none more so than in 2007, when race leader Michael Rasmussen was sacked by his team with just four stages remaining, while last year's winner Alberto Contador won't be back to defend his title as his Astana team have been barred from competing

• Stage One: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's opening stage of the 92nd Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch. The first stage is a 19km time-trial from Fromentine to Noirmoutier-en-l'Ile, where the sprinters will be hoping to gain valuable seconds ahead of the challenges to come

• Stage One: Review

  David Duffield discusses the opening stage of the race, a 19km time-trial from Fromentine to Noirmoutier-en-l'Ile, featuring highlights of the major talking-points. With analysis from Sean Kelly and Richard Virenque

• Stage Seven

  Coverage of the seventh stage of this year's race, a 52km individual time-trial from Saint-Gregoire to Rennes. This stage represents a chance for the time-trial specialists to impress, and Britain's Bradley Wiggins will be among those with hopes of claiming victory. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly, and roadside reports from Christi Anderson

• Stage Seven

  The tour makes its first venture into the Pyrenees today, as the riders tackle the 224km between Barcelona and Andorra in stage seven. Bernhard Kohl was awarded the King of the Mountains honour last year, but was banned from the sport for two years for testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs just a few months later, meaning the Polka Dot jersey went to overall champion Carlos Sastre Candil, who had finished second in the mountains

• Stage Seven 2008

  Coverage of the seventh stage of the famous race, as the riders continue in the mountains on the 159km journey from Brioude to Aurillac. This is a relatively short stage but a challenging one that features two Category Two climbs, including the 1,588m Pas de Peyrol

• Stage Seven: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's seventh stage of the 94th Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch on the 197.5km journey from Bourg-en-Bresse to Le-Grand-Bornand

• Stage Seven: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's seventh stage of the 92nd Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch on the 228.5km journey from Luneville to Karlsruhe

• Stage Seven: Review

  David Duffield discusses the seventh stage of the race, a 52km individual time-trial from Saint-Gregoire to Rennes, featuring highlights of the major talking-points

• Stage Six

  Coverage of stage six of the most prestigious event on the cycling calendar, featuring a 189km journey from Lisieux to Vitre. Vitre is the Gateway to Brittany and the riders know that the next stage is an individual time-trial, so they'll be hoping for a simple day among the peloton. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly

• Stage Six

  The tour continues this afternoon with stage six, as the riders travel 181.5km between the Catalonian heartland of Girona to Barcelona in Spain. The tour breaks new ground today, as the conclusion of the stage represents the southernmost destination in the race's 96-year history. The sprinters will be in full force here, as tomorrow a three-stage route over the mountains of the Pyrenees begins

• Stage Six 2008

  Coverage of the sixth stage of Le Tour, a 195.5km journey from Aigurande to Super-Besse, as the riders tackle their first mountain climbs. The stage gradually ascends as the riders cross the Massif Central, before peaking at the 1,401m Col de la Croix-Morand, a Category Two mountain

• Stage Six: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's sixth stage of the 94th Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch on the 199.5km journey from Semur-en-Auxois to Bourg-en-Bresse

• Stage Six: Review

  David Duffield discusses the sixth stage of the race, a 189km journey from Lisieux to Vitre, featuring highlights of the major talking-points

• Stage Three

  Coverage of the third stage of the tour, a 216.5km journey from Esch-sur-Alzette to Valkenburg, the third longest stage facing the riders. The T-Mobile team will be determined to recover from the suspension of Jan Ullrich on the eve of the race, and the likes of Michael Rogers and Andreas Kloden will be hoping to impress in the German's absence. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly

• Stage Three

  Coverage of the third stage of the tour, a 236.5km journey from Waregem in Belgium to Compiegne in France, the longest stage facing the riders this year. Organisers and supporters will be hoping for a race free from controversy after 2006 winner Floyd Landis failed a drug test, and the likes of Alexandre Vinokourov and Alejandro Valverde start among the favourites. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly

• Stage Three

  Commentary on stage three, as the riders set off in the south-coast city of Marseille and travel 195.5km to La Grande-Motte

• Stage Three

  The tour continues with stage three, as the riders set off in the south-coast city of Marseille and travel 195.5km to La Grande-Motte. This is another stage that stretches along the shoreline of the Mediterranean Sea and will favour the sprinters. Defending champion Carlos Sastre Candil was considered as a climbing specialist for much of the early part of his career, but his vast improvement over the flat terrain in recent years has seen him challenge for honours more frequently during the Grand Tours, which was never more evident than in his success in this event 12 months ago

• Stage Three 2008

  Coverage of the third stage in the 95th edition of the famous race, as the riders take on the 208km from Saint-Malo to Nantes. The sprinters will be looking forward to this stage, one of the flattest and quickest on the tour, with valuable points toward the Green Jersey up for grabs

• Stage Three: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's third stage of the 94th Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch on the 236.5km journey from Waregem in Belgium to Compiegne in France

• Stage Three: Review

  David Duffield discusses the third stage of the race, a 216.5km journey from Esch-sur-Alzette to Valkenburg in Holland, featuring highlights of the major talking-points

• Stage Two

  Coverage of the second stage of the prestigious event, featuring a 228.5km journey from Obernai to Esch-sur-Alzette. This is the first time that Obernai has been handed the honour of being a stage town but the assembled stars will pay that fact little heed as they aim to gain an early advantage over their rivals ahead of tougher tests to come. With commentary by David Harmon and Sean Kelly

• Stage Two

  The 96th staging of the world's most prestigious bike race reaches stage two, as the riders officially begin their bids to reach Paris with a 187km journey between Monaco and Brignoles. This is a relatively flat stage, passing the southern coastline of France and taking in the cities of Nice and Draguignan along the way. Spaniards have won this race for the last three years: Oscar Pereiro in 2006, Alberto Contador in 2007 and Carlos Sastre Candil in 2008

• Stage Two 2008

  Coverage of the second stage of the race, a 164.5km journey from Auray to Saint-Brieuc in north-west France. Several leading names will be absent from this year's tour, including last year's Green Jersey winner Tom Boonen, who tested positive for cocaine in May, and the 2007 winner Alberto Contador

• Stage Two: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's second stage of the 93rd Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch. A 228.5km journey from Obernai to Esch-sur-Alzette awaits the riders and the stars will be hoping to make an early move in their campaigns

• Stage Two: Preview

  James Richardson is joined by David Duffield to look ahead to this afternoon's second stage of the 94th Tour de France, assessing the riders and teams to watch. A 168.5km journey from Dunkirk in France to Ghent in Belgium awaits the riders and the stars will be hoping to make an early move in their campaigns

• Stage Two: Review

  David Duffield discusses the second stage of the race, a 228.5km journey from Obernai to Esch-sur-Alzette, featuring highlights of the major talking-points

• Team Presentation

  The teams are presented ahead of the 2008 staging of the Tour de France, which starts in Brittany on Saturday