Although the GC title may well be determined prior to the start of this final stage, the last TdF stage is always a dramatic event. The final parade-like stage into Paris has begun. Asked at the start line what he thought about this day, Lance said it was a big honor for him, the USA, and the cancer community to arrive in Paris wearing the Tour de France yellow jersey.
Temps are warm but comfortable, blue skies the call for the day.
Heading into the city and the USPS train has taken it's rightful place at the front of the peloton. The French riders have an incredible incentive to win this stage - but they do not have a dominate sprinter amongst them like Steels, etc. With 7 laps to go, several riders have tried to break away, but the pack seems intent on a mass finish and rides them all down. Solo assaults, groups of 3 and 4 - anything and everything is tried and they all are brought back to the fold. The lead continues to grow - now 49 seconds up and 46 kms to go.