Armstrong second favourite to win his eighth Tour

Lance Armstrong at the finish

Ladbrokes today made comeback cycling legend Lance Armstrong second favourite to win his eighth Tour de France.

The American, who has come out of retirement after four years away from the sport, is given 9/2, behind favourite Alberto Contador (10/11), winner of the 2007 Tour.

Last year's winner, Carlos Sastre, is only sixth favourite with 16/1.

Britain's Mark Cavendish is 500/1 to win - but 5/6 favourite for the green points jersey.

The Tour starts in Monaco on Saturday, July 4.

LATEST BETTING

Tour de France: Winner

Alberto Contador 10/11

Lance Armstrong 9/2

Andy Schleck 13/2

Cadel Evans 9/1

Denis Menchov 14/1

Carlos Sastre 16/1

Levi Leipheimer 25/1

Frank Schleck 50/1

Michael Rogers 50/1

Robert Gesink 50/1

Roman Kreuziger 50/1

Vincenzo Nibali 50/1

Selected other:

Mark Cavendish 500/1

Green jersey

Mark Cavendish 5/6

Oscar Freire 10/3

Thor Hushovd 11/2

Daniele Bennati 13/2

Heinrich Haussler 14/1

Tyler Farrar 20/1

Gerald Ciolek 25/1

Kim Kirchen 25/1

Gert Steegmans 33/1

RELATED LINKS

Tour de France 2009 - Cycling Weekly's full coverage

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Keith Bingham joined the Cycling Weekly team in the summer of 1971, and retired in 2011. During his time, he covered numerous Tours de France, Milk Races and everything in-between. He was well known for his long-running 'Bikewatch' column, and played a pivotal role in fighting for the future of once at-threat cycling venues such as Hog Hill and Herne Hill Velodrome.