Greig Leach

The title of this work can apply to either Frenchman in the painting. Romain Bardet (Ag2r La Mondiale) and his team had put everything into taking the stage with the possible side benefit of pulling on the leader's Maillot Jaune. Unfortunately, Thibaut Pinot (FDJ) was able to hold onto every attack his countryman launched and ultimately, he claimed the stage as well. To add insult to energy, Chris Froome (Sky) closed enough on the final climb to keep his Yellow Jersey even if Bardet had claimed the full ten second time bonus by taking the stage. Bardet could consul himself knowing that he was now tied for second place just seven seconds down on the leader of Team Sky. With just seconds separating the top five placings the stage is set for some very exciting racing on the final stage of this running of the Criterium du Dauphine!