At the AU Summit in the Libyan city of Syrte, African leaders have reached a compromise deal on the powers of a new African Union Authority that will co-ordinate key policies, including defence. However, the authority will have little power to act without a mandate from member states.

The 96th Tour de France gets underway in Monaco on Saturday. Among the main talking points ahead of the gruelling three-week race is whether Carlos Sastre can become the first man since Lance Armstrong to defend the title. And, of course, how Armstrong will fare on his return.

Michael Jackson's ex-wife, Debbie Rowe, declared Thursday that she will seek custody of his two eldest children, as his family announced that a memorial service will be held in Los Angeles on Tuesday.