The scene was set for an important and exciting battle among the overall favorites on today's 184 kilometer long 14th stage from yesterday's arrival town, Revel to today's uphill finish and ski area, Ax 3 Domaines in an altitude of 1372 meters. Shortly before taking on the final climb, the peloton was challenged with the huge HC-mountain, Portpailheres in an altitude of 2001 meters.

Nine riders worked up a lead of five minutes before the first climb but the intense pace of the chasing pack wore down the gap and the front group kept getting slimmer as the climb was getting steeper.

Andy was looking sharp from the very beginning of the stage and he stayed at the wheel of his worst rival, Alberto Contador (Astana) who tried to shake off the Team Saxo Bank rider in vain.

Christophe Riblon (Ag2R) took advantage of the tactical play among the overall favorites and was rewarded for his courage with a solo victory while Andy crossed the finish line with Alberto Contador (Astana) and he keeps the overall lead of the race.

“I am quite satisfied with today's result. I simply stuck to the plan and stayed with Alberto (Contador) and I can afford to lose a few seconds to Menchov (Denis) and Sanchez (Samuel). I will attack when the time is right and I'm sure that tomorrow's stage will be different,” said Andy.