Stage 21 – Paris, and the one where Mark Cavendish breaks Merckx’s record and wins 35 stages….but sadly the fairytale finish wasn’t to be. The stage began well, but towards the climax, Cavendish became separated from his lead out man, and instead took up position on the wheels of Wout Van Aert. He was side by side with Jasper Philipsen and couldn’t get past. Van Aert took his third stage win with phenomenal strength and Cavendish slapped his bike in frustration, knowing he just missed out.

I was very sorry about it but it was still an outstanding race for them both. Van Aert crossed the line with three fingers aloft. Cavendish can hold three fingers on one hand and four on the other if he chooses, which is wonderful. He won his second Green Jersey, a great souvenir of his outstanding Tour performance. He is the greatest sprinter of all time, it’s official!