Mark Cavendish is gearing up to make history in this year's Tour de France. The Isle of Man sprinter aims to surpass Eddy Merckx's legendary record of 34 stage wins, a milestone he matched in 2021.
The highly anticipated third stage from Piacenza to Turin presents Cavendish with the perfect opportunity to break the tie. The 231-kilometer, mostly flat route is expected to end in a mass sprint finish, ideal for Cavendish's explosive speed.
Having narrowly missed a 35th win on the seventh stage in 2023 before crashing and postponing his retirement, Cavendish is more determined than ever. \"It's quite beautiful this year with the start in Florence, near where I lived for 10 years,\" Cavendish shared. \"I think I'm more ready now (for retirement) than I was last year. I'm happy but I'm also so happy I carried on.\"
Cavendish isn't the only suitor; with the race moving back to France after the initial stages in Italy, sprinters will have multiple chances to claim victory. \"Realistically there are five or six chances, so we've come here to try to do it,\" he added.
At 39, Cavendish has an illustrious career, including wins across all three Grand Tours and a world championship title in 2011. His nickname, \"the Manx Missile,\" reflects his reputation as one of cycling's most formidable sprinters.
\"If I've left an impact on them that helps motivate them, then that's what's important,\" Cavendish concluded, highlighting his role as an inspiration to future generations.
Reference(s):
Cavendish ready to beat Merckx for most Tour de France stage wins
cgtn.com
