The green sprinter's jersey or points jersey was first awarded in 1953 to celebrate the Tour's 50th anniversary.

Points are awarded each day for position, rather than time, across the finish line.

So riders who finish consistently highest each day build up green jersey points.

2003 speed merchant: Baden Cooke

Flatter stages offer greater points rewards to keep the race lively.

Additional points can be picked up at intermediate sprints called primes or 'hot spots' placed along the route.

To win the competition a rider has to be consistent and fast and must be able to struggle through the mountains in one piece.

2004 green jersey winner: Robbie McEwen.

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Introduction

Yellow jersey

Polka-dot jersey

Green jersey

White jersey

Did you know?

Germany's Erik Zabel has won the green jersey a record six times and was finally dethroned in the 2002 race by the Australian sprinter Robbie McEwen.

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