Erik Breukink: Menchov played all or nothing

By Brecht Decaluwé in Morzine

We asked Erik Breukink, the sports director of Rabobank if Denis Menchov still believed in his chances. "[Thursday] he still could win it all, but it just didn't happen for him," said Breukink. "One moment, he was thirty seconds before Klöden, so he did try. Afterwards, Boogerd stayed with him for a while but then he was allowed to ride for himself."

When Menchov was set back, he immediately lost much time which blew up all his chances for the podium. "It was the last mountain they had to climb, so you'd better gamble and play all or nothing. If he didn't try it, then we surely wouldn't have won it."

The overall performance of the Rabobank team must have pleased him, as Boogerd and Rasmussen did well again. "We were still there with three riders in a group of thirteen. Unfortunately, we're out of the race for the podium, that's a pity," Erik Breukink finished.