Bad luck for Menchov

Denis Menchov (Rabobank) was stripped off his chances for an overall victory in a crash in Saturday's stage to La Toussuire - but nevertheless has shown in the Dauphiné that he is back to good physical health and form. Menchov was very impressive on his way up the famous Mont Ventoux, the "bald giant" of Provence, where he took the day's victory on Thursday. Second overall at 28 seconds, he was out trying to attack the race leader when he crashed on a corner.

"It wasn't a technical mistake, he was simply unlucky," team director Erik Breukink told De Telegraaf. "Denis was riding in second position in that group at the time. Of course it's a shame that he lost is chance on the overall win this way. In the last kilometres before the finish, you could see that he found his rhythm again. I'm just happy that he didn't suffer any serious injuries in that fall. Looking at his form in this Dauphiné, he's right on track for the Tour."