Contador Surges to Lead Tour's 14th Stage

Even performance by new leader is called "suspicious"

(NEWSER) - The Tour de France limped along yesterday under a growing storm of criticism and calls that the event be halted. Three top riders were booted in 30 hours this week in a growing doping scandal. Even the performance by the race's new leader, Spain's Alberto Contador, was called "very suspicious" by a rival team manager. More»

Spanish cyclist eclipses Armstrong in second Tour triumph

(AP) - Alberto Contador won the Tour de France for a second time today, and Lance Armstrong capped his return to the race with an impressive third-place finish. Mark Cavendish of Britain became the first rider to win six Tour stages in a sprint, collecting his sixth stage win after the 101.9-mile course ride from Montereau-Fault-Yonne to the Champs-Elysees. More»

(NEWSER) - The Tour de France got under way today, and the BBC runs down some of the cyclists to watch. It all starts with Lance Armstrong, of course, who, "for better or worse," will grab most of the attention. Others:

• Alberto Contador: The 2007 winner is the favorite this year, though he may be battling teammate Armstrong.
• Mark Cavendish: After a strong showing at the Giro d'Italia, the rider could become the first Brit to win the Tour since 1987.

Alberto Contador takes home the yellow jersey

(NEWSER) - Spanish cyclist Alberto Contador donned the final yellow jersey on the Champs Elysées yesterday after winning the 94th tour de France. The 24-year-old underdog—who was not even captain of his team—was bolstered by his climbing skills on this year's particularly mountainous route. More»

Brit rider accuses Rasmussen of dodging anti-doping officials

(NEWSER) - Tour de France leader Michael Rasmussen is "shrouded in suspicion" for failing to tell officials where he was during anti-doping tests, claims Brit cyclist David Millar. "It is unacceptable of a rider of his stature and responsibility," said Millar, who was himself once chastised for using performance enhancers. More»