So good you have to post it twice???
I watched a program about a team, I think it was Mercury, that "apparently" had the points and the money to get into the Tour but was not invited due to there being "enough" American teams in it already and they wanted more French riders. I dont know how true this was, but if this was the case, it would be another hurdle to overcome to get another woman into the Tour.
I am neither for or against women being in the tour but I am a "traditionalist" for somethings. I do disagree with that one h0m0's response that men dont watch women sports even though they are scantily clad.......whatta poof!