Armstrong roars into contention
LA GRANDE MOTTE, France (Reuters) - Seven-times champion Lance Armstrong proved his Tour de France credentials once again when he climbed to third overall following a spectacular third stage on Monday.
Briton Mark Cavendish snatched the stage victory after 196.5 kms from Marseille to La Grande Motte but the day's big winner was Armstrong, the only favourite who was not caught out by a sharp break from Team Columbia.
Swiss Fabian Cancellara of the Saxo Bank team retained the overall leader's yellow jersey, finishing ahead of German Tony Martin and American Armstrong by 33 and 40 seconds respectively.
Hot favourite Alberto Contador, who was trapped after Team Columbia's move, dropped to fourth overall.
Spaniard Contador, named Astana's team leader ahead of Armstrong, slipped 19 seconds behind the 37-year-old Texan.
"I am not ok with that theory saying there can be only one team leader," said Armstrong.
"I have won seven Tours de France, I will have to be counted in."
Astana sports director Alain Gallopin said there would not be any problems within the team even though Armstrong has somehow upset the hierarchy. Continued...
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