The 84,6 km stage ended with an uphill finish of 14 kilometers. Sports Director Markus Zingen: "These short stages are always tricky and Alex doesn't like them. The last climb was not easy, but tomorrow is going to be a lot harder."

The first part of the race was mainly flat and were done with a high speed. Once the climbing started, a break of 20 riders formed, including Joël Zangerle. Zingen: "He was there to take care of our GC interests."

On the last climb the peloton caught up with the break and the elimination started. Zingen: "Alex was in the wheel of Tiernan-Locke the whole time, but when he attacked at two K to go, Alex couldn't follow. He lost time and finished seventh, but he is still in second place. The leader is certainly riding very strong here and I wouldn't be surprised if he wins the afternoon TT (17,7 km) as well."