Proud Papa

Three days before the start of the Tour de France, 1997 winner Jan Ullrich became a father to a baby girl Tuesday in Freiburg. The Bianchi team leader was on hand for the birth of Sarah Maria. "I'm the happiest man in the world, I'm so glad I could be the

Eurosport

Image credit: TNT Sports

The baby was due around July 14, in the middle of the three-week race.

The girl was born just in time. Ullrich was due to fly out Wednesday for the start of the centenary edition of the Tour.

"The birth of Sarah has given me even more motivation," added Ullrich. "I can now start the Tour with a load off my mind."

Mother and daughter are doing well but will have to stay in hospital for a week following the caesarian birth.