Mark Cavendish is set to compete in the Tour de France with Astana Qazaqstan, aiming for a record 35th stage win after narrowly missing out on breaking the record last year. He will be supported by a strong sprint squad and aims to surpass Eddy Merckx's record. Geraint Thomas will also participate in the Tour, providing support for INEOs Grenadiers co-leaders. Cavendish, recently knighted, seeks to capitalize on sprint opportunities in the race, starting in Italy this year. With Cavendish's 15th and final Tour approaching, he will have multiple chances to secure the stage win record, currently tied at 34 victories with Merckx.