With Mathias Frank out of the race, IAM hope to win a stage in the mountains with Marcel Wyss or Sebastien Reichenbach. However, both came up short in today's first battle in the Alps.

Vincenzo Nibali (Astana) once again showed his superiority during the 13th stage of the 101st Tour de France.  The Italian national champion won solo high above the French town of Grenoble on this first stage in the Alps, consolidating his lead in the overall standings. 

IAM Cycling tried their best to keep up with the pure climbers, but their efforts lacked that little extra kick necessary.  Marcel Wyss finished 30th losing 10’05” on the final ascent leading up to Chamrousse. Sylvain Chavanel and Jérôme Pineau were next over the line for the Swiss team in 34th at 13’35’’ and 37th at 14’10’’, respectively.   
 
Kjell Carlström, directeur sportif for IAM Cycling along with Eddy Seigneur, emphasized the extreme difficulty of the day. 

“The speed and heat really tested the riders.  They were going at an average speed of 45 km/h before they reached the last two climbs.  We started the day with the intention of getting into the break, but that didn’t work out for us.  And since Katusha was driving the pack so hard, there was no way to make a counter-attack in order to bridge up.  On the final climb, Marcel Wyss did quite well while Sylvain Chavanel and Jérôme Pineau were not far behind.”  
 
Marcel Wyss came into the race as the designated lieutenant in the mountains for Mathias Frank, and worked hard to live up to the requirements despite the absence of his friend and roommate. 

“I was not really at my best because of the heat.  My legs were heavy.  But on the last climb, I managed to feel some of the right sensations and work my way into a good pace.  We’ll have to be ready to repeat this performance since Saturday’s stage is equally mountainous.”
 
As for Sébastien Reichenbach, who trailed in 66th place at 32’22”, the pain as a result of his bruised thigh prevented him from living up to his potential on a climb like this. 

“I have struggled because of the pain I have been suffering since my crash.  In a race as hard as the Tour de France, just the smallest injury or mishap is enough to keep you from recuperating properly and performing at your true level.”