Izagirre took risks, reaching a top speed of about 80 kph to ride clear for Spain’s first stage win in this Tour. Pantano, however, joined him near the top along with Izagirre, who came from behind, and the three went on to contest the stage win on the dangerous, wet descent. Chris Froome added to his reputation as one of the best Tour de France riders when he virtually secured his third title, holding on to his overall lead in the last competitive stage, won by Spain’s Ion Izagirre on Saturday. Froome, who is set to become the first rider to retain his title since Indurain in 1995, leads France’s Romain Bardet by four minutes five seconds. Ahead of them are five-times champions Miguel Indurain of Spain, Belgian great Eddy Merckx, Frenchmen Bernard Hinault and Jacques Anquetil.

Source: Indian Express July 23, 2016 16:14 UTC