With no real climbers on the roster, IAM always knew that the mountainous Route du Sud would be a tough affair for the team but they were still hugely disappointed after their poor performance in the opening stage. The team bounced back with a much better performance in yesterday's queen stage where Patrick Schelling finished 20th.

Nicolas Roche (Tinkoff-Saxo) stormed to an excellent win in Val Louron on the second stage of the Route du Sud, taking over the leader’s jersey in the process.  For their part, the riders of IAM Cycling pulled up their socks after having been tailed off the back on the first day.  Patrick Schelling finished the difficult stage in 20th place having been able to climb with the favorites until less than five kilometers to go to the finish.
 
IAM Cycling directeur sportif, Mario Chiesa made particular note of the improvement that the team made in relation to its performance on the previous day. 

“IAM Cycling was smiling again.  The whole team had a much better day.  The heat wave still sapped a lot out of us, but it was important for these young riders to make it over the mythical passes like the Tourmalet and the Aspin; they’ve all gained valuable experience.  Under these conditions, I am particularly taken with the attitude of Patrick Schelling, but also of the other riders.” 

On the eve of the final stage, Mario Chiesa is ready to ask even more of his guys. 

“I already told them on Friday that the last day would be theirs for the taking.  We must attack this stage to show our qualities and we have to have riders in the day’s breakaway.”