Greig Leach

Sensing weakness in Team Sky and driven by a bit of desperation to pull back time on Chris Froome (Team Sky) and his Maillot Jaune, all of the contenders were eager to use the short steep climb up from Mende to gain some time. Vincenzo Nibali (Astana) was the first of the big names to light up the race for yellow behind the drama being played out up the road for the stage victory. Jumping quickly onto the Italian's wheel with the Maillot Blanc of Best Young Rider on his shoulders was the Colombian, Nairo Quintana (Movistar). Now isolated, Chris Froome was left to chase down the pair, and all of the other attacks being launched by those who still hope to wear yellow in Paris. Of course, the attacks also have the potential of changing the podium placings and the order of the General Classification.