Dutch national cycling coach Leo van Vliet is concerned at the disappointing performances of Dutch cyclists in this year's Tour de France, which continues through 26 July.

The lack of success in the Tour so far has put the ranking of the Netherlands within the International Cycling Union under pressure. Currently the country ranks ninth in the world, but if performances in the Tour don't improve, Mr Van Vliet is concerned that the Netherlands could drop out of the Top 10.

That would mean that only six Dutch cyclists rather than nine would be allowed to take part in the 2009 Road World Championships to be held in September in Mendrisio, Switzerland. Mr Van Vliet has implored the Dutch cyclists taking part in the Tour de France to do everything they can to win at least one stage.