London has turned down the chance to stage the start of 2017 Tour de France because it does not offer value for money, it was claimed last night. But Tour de France organisers ASO explained they are not angry that the British city pulled out of its bid to host the start of the race.

"Contrary to what has been reported, we are not angry at all," race director Christian Prudhomme told Reuters. "We are still grateful for the Grand Depart in 2007 and London pulling out does not change the fact that cycling is now big in Britain."

Prudhomme added that the host city of the 2017 edition would be announced this winter. According to some rumours, Germany should welcome the race.