Precisely. I don't see whether Armstrong rides or doesn't ride in the TF as being newsworthy at all.

As far as the French not liking Americans, I think the reality is that the French don't like 'ugly Americans', just as we Americans wouldn't like people coming here and acting like morons. I don't think that the French so much appreciate visitors that immerse themselves in the culture or language. I think they simply appreciate visitors that conduct themselves with simple dignity, with respect for the country they're in and the people they're among, and with manners.... just like we do.