sports

The Tour de France starts next month as organizers grant jurisdiction of the race to the French cycling federation. The International Cycling Union (UCI) and big tours organizers like ASO have argued who decides which athletes can compete. [Christian Prudhomme, Tour de France Director]: "So, we've asked the FFC (French Cycling Federation) that the Tour de France 2008 is organised under their aegis just like the Paris-Nice race last Spring, and according to the French law and in respect of the
technical and sports rules." The dispute dates back to 2004 when the big tour organizers refused to join UCI's ProTour series. Now, to Euro 2008, as thousands watched a practice session for team Portugal. With star players Cristiano Ronaldo and Deco, the team will have no shortage of support from the estimated 180,000 Portuguese immigrants in Switzerland. Runners-up to Greece in Euro 2004, Portugal will face Turkey in Geneva on Saturday. As for the reigning European champions, Greece arrived in Austria yesterday. Narrowly qualifying for the chance to defend their title, goalkeeper Antonis Nikopolidis told reporters that the team is not feeling the pressure.
[Antonis Nikopolidis, Goalkeeper]: "We came here to play our football and to really enjoy the game. We are not under pressure. It's a good thing that Greece managed to qualify for the final round of two competitions in a row. As I told you already we are
not under pressure. We would like to give our best and really enjoy the game." Greece will have time to work on their mistakes before their title defense begins one week from Saturday against Sweden.

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