The 2008 Tour de France, the 95th edition of the race, consisted of 21 stages and covered a total distance of approximately 3,500 kilometers (2,175 miles). The race took take place from July 5 to July 27, 2008. The race began in Brest, Brittany, and concluded in Paris on the Champs-Élysées.
Spanish cyclist Carlos Sastre emerged as the overall winner of the 2008 Tour de France (see more winners), claiming his first Tour victory. Sastre finished the race 58 seconds ahead of Australian Cadel Evans, who took second place, and 1 minute and 13 seconds ahead of his teammate Bernhard Kohl of Austria, who finished third.
Bernhard Kohl, who finished third and won the polka dot jersey for the best climber, was later disqualified for doping, which underscored the ongoing challenges in the sport. Additionally, the 2008 race featured strong performances from young riders, including Andy Schleck of Luxembourg, who won the white jersey as the best young rider.
Trivia
- The race started in Brest, in the northwest Brittany region of France, with the first three stages starting in this region.
- The tour was held in Italy on the 15th stage.
Related Pages
- Info about the next tour, the 2009 tour de france
- Information about each of the tours
- Tour de France home
- About the World of Sport in 2008
- About Sport in France