As expected, the third stage of the Ruta del Sol and the final climb of the Alto de Hazallanas led to the duel Contador-Froome, with the Spaniard taking the win. While Jérémy Roy led a great escape to the foot of the final climb, FDJ were set back by the withdrawal of Murilo Fischer who has been asked to take a rest for three days.

"Caught in the crash of the first stage, Murilo banged his knee hard and it is swollen," sports director Franck Pineau said. "He managed to complete the second stage but it was dangerous for him to continue. The doctor told him to take three days of rest. He won't be ready for Omloop Het Nieuwsblad in a week but he will do the Grand Prix Samyn four days later which will allow him to see where he is."

Since this stage was for climbers, Pineau and his five men had agreed to a plan of anticipating but all were admiring the defense work by Contador's team.

"The five riders had carte blanche to escape and it was finally Jérémy Roy wjo ended up in a group of nine riders but their lead never exceeded 2.50," Pineau said. "Three riders of the Saxo-Tinkoff team did a masterpiece! It was then time for Contador to kick into action."

Arthur Vichot, accompanied by Cédric Pineau and Kenny Elissonde, tried to keep up for a few kilometres before deciding to ride at their own pace.

"And Saturday it will not be much simpler," Pineau said. "There is less difference in altitude but it will be up and down all the time. It is good for my riders who are here to prepare for Paris-Nice."