2014 Tour de France: The cobbles – potential carnage?

Nine sections of cobbles (pavé) between Ypres and Arenberg: 155.5 kilometres

Today's stage, although short, will be tough because of the sections of cobbles normally used for the famous Paris-Roubaix classic. Furthermore the forecast is for rain. Watch this good preview to see what the riders will face.

Fabian Cancellara must be a good bet for the stage win, while the overall contenders will be praying to get through safely without losing too much time on their rivals.

Le Tour@Yorkshire: head says Kittel – heart says Cavendish

Le Tour@Pauillac in 2010

The appertizers – Wimbledon and the World Cup – are nearly over now the main event – Le Tour de France – starts in Yorkshire today. 

The first stage from Leeds to Harrogate looks likely to be one for the sprinters for although there are some climbs the last one is 62 km from the finish. The winner will get to wear the Yellow Jersey, so there is an enormous incentive for Mark Cavendish to go all out to win and get his first Yellow Jersey. Mark will have to see off Marcel Kittel, the best sprinter in last year's Tour, and André Griepel. Also as the finish is quite difficult rising 42 metres over the last two kilometres, so you can't rule out Peter Sagan. However, this year Mark has Mark Renshaw back in his team, which may be the crucial factor. Other possibles include John Degenkolb and André Demare.  

My two favourites for overall victory are Chris Froome and Alberto Contador with Vincenzo Nibali.  

The first stage can be a lottery with 198 riders and there are some narrow roads for some of the stage. Hopefully there won't be crashes but history suggests that unfortunately there will be. Last year crashes in the first stage last year eliminated Mark Cavendish from contending the first sprint. It also looks quite windy, so there may be splits in the peloton. 

So who will be added to my page of all time stage winners today?

*** Update: Sadly my head proved to be right on this occasion with Marcel Kittel winning and Mark Cavendish on the floor.