The 2nd stage of the Tour de France, 166 km from Utrecht to Zéland, was heavily influenced by the weather conditions which had a double face: the sun was shining at the start while in Rotterdam the wind and the rain began to rule.

This change of the conditions created splits and crashes. LAMPRE-MERIDA's riders rode united, but two of the most important helpers of Rui Costa, Pozzato and Cimolai, were involved in crashes (without consequences) which set them back.

Despite these troubles, Rui Costa managed to be in front until 40 km remained, when in a frantic moment 25 riders attacked on the opposite side of the road. This was the winning attack that allowed Greipel to obtain the success in a restricted sprint.

The group of Rui Costa was later joined by another larger group with blue-fuchsia-green riders Pozzato, Oliveira and Bono and all the top contenders for the overall classification except for Contador, Froome, van Garderen and Uran who were in the front group. Rui Costa crossed the finish line in 31st position, 1'28" behind Greipel.

It was a very unlucky day for Rafael Valls, who had to stop several times because of crashes that occurred just ahead him: he completed the stage in 134th position, 5'04" behind the winner.

Cancellara, thanks to the 3rd place in the stage, is the new jellow jersey, while Rui Costa is 52nd at 2'39".

"As we expected, the race was full of difficult moments, because of the wind and the rain," sports director Philippe Mauduit said. "We were aware of these possible problems and we were ready to face them, so our riders succeded in riding as a united group. Unfortunately, some crashes broke this feeling, however Rui Costa managed to be in the front group until 40 km to go.

"The result of the stage is favourable for Froome, Contador and Uran, it would have been great if we could have taken this opportunity".