They pulled that group mainly because Cunega and Rasmussen were in it. Not that they were huge threats to the GC, but both are good climbers, and Rasmussen IS a threat to the KOTM, and there were KOTM points out there today.
For those wondering about Salvodelli. Apparently he chose to ride back to the Hotel after the Stage yesterday, and on the way down the mountain he was accidently struck in the head by an object being carried by some race fans. He was knocked from the bike and required 12 stitches to close a gash on his forehead. The team thought he would be ok to ride today, but apparently pain and/or dizziness caused him to abandon after 45Km.
From cyclingnews:
Axel Merckx (Phonak) told us today, "AG2R wont take the responsibility as they don't have the jersey. But if they want to take the jersey, they can. I expect a crazy start with lot of attacks, but once the right group is gone it will go easier. The right group is an escape with not too many riders who are far away on GC."
France Television has just spoken with a directeur sportif from the Davitamon-Lotto team. Hendrik Redant offered his thoughts on today’s stage. “At first we worked to catch Bennati,” said Redant. “He is a rival of Robbie’s in the points classification.
“We had him but now it’s the same thing with Freire and that’s why you saw Robbie chasing. That’s also why you saw him talking to Tom Boonen. It would be better if two teams could work to reel in the escape, not just us. We have to save some energy so our riders will not be the only squad responsible for the pursuit. I hope that we can catch the four leaders before the finish of today’s stage.”