Greig Leach

Vincenzo Nibali (Astana) had such a substantial lead over his nearest rival that he could easily have cruised around the 54 kilometer course, but that is not what gave the Maillot Jaune the seven minute plus lead that he currently enjoys. Nibali proved in the mountains that he came to the Tour to win and to win with authority. He brought that same attitude to the penultimate stage of the 101st Tour de France, as he came through the second time check, he was only slower than the World Time Trial Champion, Tony Martin (OPQS) and Tejay van Garderen (BMC). He was riding with a different interpretation of a lap of honor, he was bringing honor to the Maillot Jaune and the Tour de France by doing his best to win the stage. His ride was enough for fifth place, faster than anyone in the remaining top six of the General Classification. While he had no need of gaining time, he finished the stage gaining time on all of his rivals. I imagine that his reticence to celebrate his overall victory may finally be evaporating. But there is still one more day of the Tour, and with this edition of the Grand Boucle, anything can happen, and for many it already has.