SPORT IN BRIEF
Cavendish keeps green jersey
CYCLING: Britain’s Mark Cavendish retained the top sprinter’s green jersey after Nicki Sorensen won yesterday’s 12th stage of the Tour de France.
Saxo Bank rider Sorensen claimed his maiden stage win in his 10th year as a professional, while overall leader Rinaldo Nocentini kept hold of the yellow jersey after finishing in the peloton.
Astana pair Alberto Contador and Lance Armstrong remain six and eight seconds behind respectively.
Hatton has virus but is “alright”
BOXING: Former world champion Ricky Hatton is recovering in hospital after being diagnosed with a gastric virus.
Hatton, 30, sparked fears when he was rushed to Manchester’s Tameside General Hospital on Wednesday after experiencing stomach cramps at home.
But his father Ray said: “It was thought at first he had swine flu but it seems he’s caught some kind of gastric bug. The phone has been going crazy with fans worried about him. I just want to say: he’s alright.”
Injured Vidic out of Utd friendly
FOOTBALL: Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic will miss tomorrow’s opening match of their tour of Asia, against a Malaysian XI in Kuala Lumpur.
Vidic, who is thought to be suffering from an ankle injury, was not part of the 22-man squad that flew out yesterday.
But England striker Michael Owen and fellow new signings Antonio Valencia and Gabriel Obertan travelled and could make their debuts in the friendly.
Todt ready to succeed Mosley
FORMULA ONE: Former Ferrari team boss Jean Todt has confirmed he will stand for the presidency of motorsport’s governing body, the FIA, in October.
Todt, who is the preferred candidate of current president Max Mosley, will contest the election with Finnish former rally champion Ari Vatanen.
The Frenchman, 63, said: “It is my intention to continue and expand the outstanding work of President Mosley.”