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.
My guess for a potentially pivotal attack would be Tejay, or Rui Costa. Richie Porte can do some damage, but I can't see him getting loose. I don't know who the best descender near the top of the GC is, but someone willing to take some chances to get away going down hill might pull off a surprise.