Geraint Thomas' Tour de France hopes dented

Thursday, 25 July 2019 11:17

Geraint Thomas' hopes of defending his Tour de France title have suffered a major blow after his road captain Luke Rowe was thrown out of the race.

Rowe was disqualified along with Jumbo-Visma's Tony Martin after the pair clashed during stage 17.

Video appears to show Martin almost riding Rowe off the road and the Welshman retaliating by grabbing the German.

A fierce battle now awaits Thomas as the race heads into the Alps for three mountain stages before the Paris finish on Sunday.

He currently sits 1:35 minutes behind race leader Julian Alaphilippe (Deceuninck-Quick Step).

More from Sport

Arsenal beat Man City 3-0 to win Community Shield

Arsenal beat Manchester City 3-0 in the Community Shield on Sunday, giving Mikel Arteta an early-season triumph while condemning new City boss Enzo Maresca to defeat in his first game in charge in the traditional curtain-raiser to the campaign.
Cristiano Ronaldo hints at retirement amid 'last year' claims

Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted that he may end his trophy-laden career at the end of this season.
Sri Lanka fight back through spinners but India 460-9

Sri Lanka struck back through spinners but Devdutt Padikkal's elegant 167 powered India to a commanding 460-9 in the rain-plagued opening test in Galle on Sunday.
Man arrested on suspicion of fraud after security operation disrupts European Championships

A man in his 30s was arrested and remains in custody on suspicion of fraud, West Midlands Police said on Sunday, after a security operation caused disruption at the European Athletics Championships in Birmingham the previous evening.
Bangladesh claim first test win in Australia as Green ton in vain

Bangladesh has chased down 57 runs to complete a landmark nine-wicket victory over Australia in the series-opener in Darwin on Sunday in one of test cricket's greatest upsets.