Keinath was the only GC contender who made gains on the last stage, moving up to 3rd after a late attack distanced his rivals. Today's stage shouldn't have too much impact on the GC. Rated flat, it is not all plain sailing for the sprinters with a number of small inclines towards the end. The stage ends on the small flat section just beyond the final incline.
No attackers initially as the riders seem to take it easy.
The break of the day forms after the first mini-hill. Seven riders are involved:
7.5 km remaining for the peloton now. Gunman and Nielsen are visible now but the gap to Mendes has increased to 2'.
4 km left. Mendes leads by 29" to Dieteren. The other breakaway riders have all been caught. The peloton have given up the chase of the lead duo.
1 km left. Mendes is cruising.
200 meters. He's already celebrating his victory!
Mendes wins!
Dieteren claims 2nd, 51" in arrears.
500 meters left for the peloton. The sprinter teams were not able to form any leadout trains. Ewan leading the pack. Borges (Porto - Prio), Modolo and Vesely are closest to the Aussie.
Vesely is gaining places on the right. Meyer is also improving.
Ewan just about hangs on for 3rd ahead of Vesely and Modolo.
Borges (Porto - Prio) is 6th with Meyer 7th. Felline outsprints teammate Demare for 8th.
Herklotz completes the top 10.
Gesink is safe in the pack.
Today's winner - Jose Mendes.
No notable changes in the standings after today's stage. It was a day of recovery for the peloton.
