FDJ managed to defend their top 10 position in stage 18 of the Giro d'Italia which was won by Philippe Gilbert (BMC) after a turbulent phase marked by a new attack from Contador and excellent work of Kenny Elissonde in support of his leader Alexander Géniez.

"There were two races in one," said Elissonde. "One was for the breakaway of 12 riders but I was instructed to stay with Alex for as long as possible. That's what I tried to do."

The peloton was split in the run-in to the only climb of the day when 30 riders crashed, Mikel Landa (Astana). Alexandre Géniez was already well-positioned near the front, escorted by Francis Mourey, Kenny Elissonde, Arnaud Courteille and Anthony Roux.

Remembering the fate of the Astana team after his mechanical problem before Mortirolo, Alberto Contador attacked, knowing Landa was behind. The peloton allowed him to go. Only Ryder Hesjedal joined him.

"Alexandre followed our instructions," said sports director Martial Gayant. "The finale of a Grand Tour is like in a football match and we have to mark our rivals. Alex had to mark the Canadian and he did that . He tried to follow but he was a bit too strong and put Alex a little bit into the red. Alex was caught by the group with Kenny and the GC contenders. He paid a little for his effort on the climb but with Kenny, he quickly regained his place in the group. It is no disaster and the leader of the FDJ team is still in the top 10."

Today the riders face another mountain stage.