There is one interesting side story to all this confusion. It might open the door for some young guns who came to carry water. Tejay is still a threat, as is Val Verde, but other teams might have newer riders capable of giving it a go who the boss could let loose. I'd enjoy some of that. it would be fun to see a break with four or five no names going at it until someone in the peloton realizes they have 7 or 8 minutes and it could upset the apple cart. Things like that used to happen no and then when TV and wireless communications weren't so common.
I’d send out Talansky on a break on either Wednesday or Thursday, to try to get back 3-4 minutes and get back in contention for the top ten. He’s far enough down to the overall leaders, that I don’t think anyone would be worried enough to challenge him.
I have not hidden my dislike for Contador but I found myself feeling sad and shocked when he withdrew today. I agree with Pete that Nibali is dull. I am beginning to wonder if he is doping. How he can ride away from everyone like he is out for a Sunday ride is a mystery to me.
I was sick over Gallopin. He was destroyed after today’s stage and so crestfallen after losing the jersey. TeJay had a good day and rode himself back into contention which is amazing after he lost so much time in the crash. Horner is hanging tough, too. We joked a few days ago that the winner would surely be the rider who could remain standing and now it’s looking like a real possibility!
Tony Martin looked so strong yet again today and then - poof!- he hit the wall. Amazing.