Armstrong set for an historic first

America's seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong announced on Monday that he was seeking an unprecedented eighth title and like Irishman Stephen Roche try for the double of a Tour of Italy and Tour de France titles.

The 37-year-old Texan had been thought to be solely a contender for the Tour of Italy but has rescinded on that idea.

"Lance Armstrong announces his participation in the 2009 Tour de France," announced his Astana team on its website.

"I have a lot of respect for this event and I am optimistic in the new direction that the Tour de France is taking."

The fact he has decided to compete in the Tour de France is interesting given that the present cycling number one Alberto Contador belongs to the same team and is the reigning Tour de France champion.

PARIS, AFP