Velonews suggested earlier today that some of the minor teams would probably be the ones expected to do the work today as the Leaders teams protected and rested. Might be why Saunier is up there --- May also be a way for the sponsor to get some TV exposure.
The manager of the Bouygues Telecom team was recently interviewed by a France Television reporter. Jean-Rene Bernaudeau was asked why Saunier Duval was chasing and what he believe the chances of Jerome Pineau were should the escape succeed.
“The Saunier Duval-Prodir team is riding at the head of the peloton because David Millar’s escape bid failed and this is a form of punishment," said Bernaudeau.