Can Jonathan Milan (Lidl-Trek) feel safe wearing the green jersey at the Tour de France? Not according to Robbie McEwen, three-time winner of the points classification, who warns: "It's far from over."

The former Australian sprinter, winner of 12 stages at the Tour and the green jersey in 2002, 2004, and 2006, has identified Tadej Pogačar as the Italian's main rival in the race for the symbol traditionally reserved for sprinters.

Milan, at his first Tour and already winner of the eighth stage, currently leads the standings with 231 points, followed by Pogačar with 183 and Mathieu van der Poel with 173.

"Milan is leading, but its leadership is not secure because Pogačar will continue to win stages and, even when he doesn't win, he always places high," McEwen explained. "He is the real threat to Milan, who will have to get into breakaways, win intermediate sprints, and place well in all the final stages that suit his characteristics."

With nine stages and eight intermediate sprints still to go, a total of 450 points are up for grabs, including 50 points for each of stages 15, 17, and 21. Another 110 points will be available for the four remaining uphill finishes and the time trial.

Van der Poel, 58 points behind, may have missed too many opportunities, partly due to his teamwork with teammates Philipsen and Groves. As McEwen emphasizes: "Winning the green jersey requires total concentration; you can't afford to sacrifice yourself for others."

Regarding pure sprints, McEwen singled out Tim Merlier as 'the best sprinter in the peloton at the moment,' adding that his victories could prove decisive in the battle between Milan and Pogačar for the green jersey.