Really impressive result from the Caisse d’Epargne rider. That was a hell of an attack and shows that he really is on form.
That said, I can’t help but think it’s potentially a tactical mistake. If he’s really serious about winning the overall race he should think about the stress he just pout his team under by winning the yellow jersey so early in the Tour. If I were the Caisse d’Epargne team manager, I’d be sorely tempted to let a breakaway go tomorrow because otherwise they’re defending the jersey through at least Tuesday’s time trial stage and, if Valverde can come through, even beyond. While I love the idea of taking the jersey on day 1 and wearing it though to Paris, it’s not the most efficient approach to riding a grand tour. Unless they’re prepared to just let it go, they’re going to be under mental and physical stress tomorrow for no long-term benefit. For a GC contender, the only yellow jersey that matters is the one handed in Paris and to get that one the team and the rider need as much energy as they can muster. Defending the yellow jersey through two early flat stages doesn’t help in that regard.
We’ll see how it all plays out, it’s just one thing I’ll be thinking of over the next couple days.
If it does go to a sprint, I’m picking Cavendish for the victory.
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