Alberto Contador (Saxo-Tinkoff) provided a lucid analysis of what happened in the time trial today at the Mont Saint Michel where Chris Froome (Sky) once again demonstrated his superiority over his main rivals. “It was a time trial in which the main conclusion is that Froome is at a level above the rest, is very strong, 'chapeau' for him”, said the leader of Saxo-Tinkoff.

At the same time, Contador said that despite losing out heavily to Froome, he found solace in the fact that he more or less equaled the times set by the other main contenders for overall glory.

“Even though I’m not in the best condition, I think I have clocked a time more or less similar to other riders at the top of the general classification. I hope that the last week in the Alps will be better for me. In the meantime I will try to remain calm.”

Contador repeated that “Froome is in a form in which it is very difficult to beat him and we will have to go day by day.” As for himself, he was relatively pleased with his performance. “I do not think I did too badly in the time trial, although I did not have a super day, but it wasn't a parcour that suits my characteristics. Every day I'm improving a little and that's always encouraging.”

Finally, Contador refused to concede defeat and ensured that there is still race to be won or lost. “Yes, of course there is still a race” he said. “Cycling is one of the sports where more things can happen and if you have a bad day you can lose everything. Of course we still have a race. We will do what we can to get as high as possible on the GC and also to make a nice race.”