British cyclist Mark Cavendish has announced a U-turn on his decision to retire.

This season was expected to be Cavendish's last but the 38-year-old sprinter has committed to another 12 months with Astana Qazaqstan Team.

He said: "I spoke to the kids, they said carry on.

"So here we are, just one more year."

Cavendish was hoping to surpass Eddy Merckx's stage record at this year's Tour de France but his efforts were cut short after he broke his collarbone.

Level on 34 Tour stages, the 2011 world road race champion will now have another shot at history.

He added: "Obviously it wasn't the finish I hoped for, crashing at the Tour de France, but it is what it is.

"I was at peace, I was ready [to retire].

"But the more I've ridden this summer — I just love riding my bike."

After agreeing a new one-year deal for his marquee rider, Astana general manager Alexander Vinokourov said: "There is no secret that the Tour de France and a stage win was the main goal for Mark. 

"I believe that a true champion should not end his career this way.

"So I asked Mark if in a few years he would regret that he didn't try again, and, in turn, suggested to reconsider his decision, to stay for another season, and still to try to win a stage in the Tour de France.

"It won't be easy to better the record he shares with Eddy Merckx — it would be a historic achievement — but we have a chance, and we have to use it."

The 2024 Tour de France begins in Florence, Italy, on June 29.