McEwen triumphs in Tour opener

McEwen, 35, looked to be out of contention when he had to stop for repairs after a crash as the race approached Canterbury towards the end of the 203km stage from London.

But he produced a blistering sprint to take the spoils from Norway's Thor Hushovd and Tom Boonen of Belgium.

Switzerland's Fabian Cancellara retained the race leader's yellow jersey although Millar made much of the running.