Cavendish gives up hope

Manxman Mark Cavendish says he’s all but given up hope of claiming the sprinter's green jersey at the Tour de France.

It’s after the 24 year-old was docked points for dangerous sprinting during Saturday’s 14th stage after rival Thor Hushovd claimed he was barged into the barriers by Cavendish.

Cavendish, who called his disqualification unfair, can not appeal the decision.

When asked if he thought the penalty was harsh, he said: ‘Obviously it is, everybody says that. That's how it is now. I hope Thor can sleep at night.’

With only one true sprint left: the one that ends in Paris next Sunday (July 26) on the final day of the race, Cavendish finds himself a near-unassailable 18 points behind the Norwegian as the riders head into the Alps.

Cavendish finished 130th in yesterday’s (Sunday) stage. Competitors have a rest day today before the race resumes in the Alps tomorrow.

Spain's Alberto Contador has the overall race leader's yellow jersey.