Frank Schleck promised to repay his younger brother Andy after their relentless attacks earned him victory in the most punishing stage of the Tour de France on Wednesday.
Frank took the 17th stage featuring five climbs, including the gruelling Col de Romme, and finished ahead of overall leader Alberto Contador and Andy.
He now is third overall, 3 minutes and 25 seconds behind Contador with Andy in second place, 2:26 off the pace.
“I am very proud of my brother,†the Luxembourg rider told a news conference.
“We had a team meeting in the bus this morning and we knew we had nothing to lose. Andy was there and he is not scared of anything, he motivated me.
“He did a great job and sacrificed himself in the last three kilometres. I know how to repay him in the coming days. I will do everything so that he can finish on the podium.â€Â  … Details