Rubén Plaza and Josè Serpa were inspired by the prestige of the 20th stage of the Tour de Franc,. The Spanish rider was even a giant on the final climb of the Alpe d'Huez, obtaining 10th place in the legendary stage,

Plaza and Serpa climbed the first ascent of the race, the Croix de Fer, in the main group, trying several times to escape and demonstrating the fighting spirit which characterized Team Lampre-Merida in the second part of the Grande Boucle.

Both blue-fuchsia-green riders attacked from the yellow jersey group on the downhill of the Col de la Croix de Fer with Pinot who became the winner of the stage.

Plaza dd a great performance on the Alpe d'Huez, crossing the finish line in 10th position at 2'50" from the winner. Serpa was 41st at 8'04", in the same group as team mates Valls and Oliveira. Plaza is 30th in the overall classification which is led by Froome.