Mark Cavendish struggled in his first race in the world champion's rainbow jersey, finishing 42nd in the Paris-Tours cycling classic yesterday (Sunday).
Fellow British cyclist Ian Stannard finished fourth in a race won by Belgian Greg Van Avermaet.
Cavendish tweeted afterwards: 'Phew, that was a stressful day. A strong wind from the start, with small roads.
'It was a hard race with a worthy winner. Congratulations to Greg Van Avermaet.'
Cavendish and Belgian Philippe Gilbert - both among the pre-race favourites - lost out after becoming boxed in at the back of the peloton.
Manx National Rally competitor dies following incident
Football: Corinthians beat rivals to reach Women's FA Cup final
Hockey: IoM men's squad prepare for county championships
NW200: Manxman Thomson ruled out through injury
NW200: Dean Harrison takes Superbike pole for weekend racing