Attacking during the first part of the Tour de France was almost impossible, last year’s winner Carlos Sastre said on Monday.
The Spaniard, in 16th place overall and nearly three minutes behind leader Rinaldo Nocentini, was content to keep his powder dry during the three Pyrenees stages.
Asked why he did not try his luck in the summit finish at Arcalis on Friday, the Cervelo rider said: “The cemetery is full of brave men.â€
Hot favourite Alberto Contador produced a telling surge two kilometres from the finish on the seventh stage to stamp his authority on the race.
Sastre built his surprise triumph last year on a stunning attack on the ascent of the Alpe d’Huez and knows he still has time to make his move.
“In nine days, there has not been a lot of … Details