Greig Leach

Another stage, another break away trying to test the will of the peloton. With just this stage and the stage into Paris left for the pure sprinters, it was unlikely this foursome of Stephane Rosetto (Cofidis), Aime De Gendt (Wanty Gobert), Anthony Perez (Cofidis) and Lilian Calmejane (Total Direct Energie) were going to be given much of an advantage. They weren't. Since the Tour is decided on total elapsed time, riders avoid stopping for most anything. So, when there is a bike problem, they will ride beside the team car as their mechanic hangs out the rear window trying to fix the problem on the fly. With any luck there are no unexpected bumps, debris nor road hazards. I have seen this move go rather badly in the past.