Today an Imax crew mounted one of its cameras to one of the Tour helicopters to film the race.
One of the many photographers at the Tour heads out on a moto for the day.
Today's break gets swamped by the press out on the road.
Saeco rider Fabio Sacchi rides in the break before finishing second today.
The peloton is led by the USPS team along the flats.
Lance Armstrong (USPS) stayed safely between teammates all day.
Jakob Piil (CSC) gets the win over Fabio Sacchi.
Bram De Groot (Rabobank) was happy finishing third as the headlights from the next group are seen in the background.
Baden Cooke (FDJeux.com) just nips Robbie McEwen on the line to gather some more sprint points.
Pavel Padrnos (USPS) rode in a little banged up today.
Jakob Piil (CSC) on the podium for taking the stage.
Lance Armstrong (USPS) safely in yellow for another day.
Baden Cooke (FDJeux.com) gets the sprinters trophy.
Richard Virenque (Quick.Step) now looks ahead to the Pyrennes and more mountain points.
If only we had time to stop and enjoy the view today.

Images by Chris Henry/Cyclingnews.com

Baden Cooke (FDJeux.com) has become a serious contender for the green jersey in Paris
George Hincapie (USPS) is once again a pillar of the US Postal Tour defence
Jorg Jaksche and ONCE suffered a tremendous blow with Beloki's abandon
Michael Boogerd (Rabobank) hopes to find his momentum again in the Pyrenees
Tyler Hamilton (CSC) was tight-lipped at the start in Gap
Niki Sorensen (l) and Michael Blaudzun (CSC) congratulate each other after teammate Piil's stage victory
Bram De Groot (Rabobank) tried unsuccessfully to bridge to the winning move by Sacchi and Piil
Vicente Garcia Acosta (iBanesto) rode aggressively but couldn't shake his breakaway companions
Jose Enrique Gutierrez (Kelme) attacked the break early, but couldn't hold off the charge into Marseille
Fred Rodriguez (Vini Caldirola) looks for the comfort of the team bus after a long, hot stage
Victory for Piil but another day of pain for Tyler Hamilton

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) obliges the fans
Alexandre Vinokourov (Telekom) signing autographs before the start
George Hincapie (USPS) signing autographs before the start
A glum looking ONCE team get ready for the start
Manolo Saiz (ONCE director) answers questions about Beloki
Baden Cooke (FDJeux.com) looking good in green
Jakob Piil (CSC) beats Fabio Sacchi (Saeco, R) to win stage 10
Jakob Piil (CSC) celebrates his win
Robbie McEwen (Lotto-Domo) had to swerve into Baden Cooke after crossing the line to avoid the photographers
Baden Cooke (FDJeux.com) won the sprint for 10th place and kept his green jersey
Jakob Piil (CSC) surrounded by media after the stage
Fabio Sacchi (Saeco) was disappointed with second place...
Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) survived another day, and hopes for better chances in the Pyrenees
Jan Ullrich (Team Bianchi) rehydrates
Brad McGee (FDJeux.com) looking tired today
Jakob Piil (CSC) salutes from the podium with his bouquet
Lance Armstrong (USPS-Berry Floor) survived the first half of the Tour and now wears the yellow jersey
Baden Cooke (FDJeux.com) in the green jersey after stage 10

Images by Olympia Photo

Lance Armstrong (USPS-Berry Floor) rides through the heat in stage 10
Jakob Piil (CSC) and Fabio Sacchi (Saeco, R) watch each other carefully towards the end of stage 10.
Jakob Piil (CSC) wins the sprint in Marseilles from Fabio Sacchi (Saeco)
Jakob Piil (CSC) finally got it right to win the 10th stage of the Tour de France, having come close on several occasions in the past
Fabio Sacchi (Saeco) douses himself with water after the stage, disappointed with second place
Baden Cooke (FDJeux.com) wins the sprint for 10th from McEwen (L) and Zabel

Stage 9 - Monday July 14: Bourg d'Oisans - Gap, 184.5 km

Images by Jonathan Devich/Cyclingnews.com, epicimages.us

One of today's chase groups makes its way up the Col du Lautaret
Roman Vainsteins (Vini Caldirola) gets a bottle from Quick.Step's car on the climb.
Jimmy Casper (FDJeux.com) has been hanging on but couldn’t conquer the mountains today.
The peloton makes its way over one of the many bridges today.
Lance Armstrong (USPS) spends his first day in yellow.
Jan Ullrich (Bianchi) stays close to Armstrong on the last climb of the day.
The peloton leaves the mountains today and heads for a flat stage tomorrow to Marseille.
Jorg Jaksche leads the breakaway group that Vinokourov chased down on his way to the win.
Laurent Jalabert presents Richard Virenque with the climbers jersey today.

Images by Chris Henry/Cyclingnews.com

Paolo Bettini (Quick.Step) was relaxed and happy after his second place on stage 9
Roberto Laiseka (Euskaltel) has quietly moved himself to 11th on GC
Jorg Jaksche (ONCE) saw an excellent day of attack come to a tragic end with Beloki's abandon
Marcus Serrano (ONCE) gazes at the replay of Beloki's crash on the finish line video screen
David Millar (Cofidis) had strong legs, but made a tactical mistake by attacking too early
Angel Casero and Team Bianchi were on the attack for much of stage 9
Franco Pellizotti (Alessio) tried his chances in the breaks, but lack of coordination doomed the move
Laurent Brochard (Ag2r) spoke of a fast start and a tough parcours
Laurent Dufaux (Alessio) grabs a drink after the one of the hottest days on the Tour
Chechu Rubiera (USPS) chats after a tough day of tempo riding in a difficult race to control
Guido Trentin and Cedric Vasseur (Cofidis) relieved to be finished

Images by Olympia Photo

The peloton crossing a bridge en route to Gap during the ninth stage of the Tour de France
Lance Armstrong (USPS-Berry Floor) in the company of Floyd Landis during the 9th stage
Paolo Bettini (Quick.Step) went on the attack early in the stage, but dropped back to the bunch, eventually finishing second
Baden Cooke (FDJ) ascends the Col d'Izoard in the company of a teammate
Alexandre Vinokourov (Telekom) during his winning attack
ONCE manager Manolo Saiz helps Beloki up after his crash
Joseba Beloki (ONCE) is taken away in an ambulance following his terrible crash
Joseba Beloki (ONCE) ended his Tour in an ambulance after crashing heavily on the final descent of stage 9

Images by Jeff Tse & Monique du Bois/jeffreytse1@yahoo.com

Lance Armstrong (USPS-Berry Floor) rides next to Jan Ullrich on the Col d'Izoard
The peloton descends off the Col d'Izoard

Images by AFP Photo

The peloton rides in the Alps during stage 9
Lance Armstrong (USPS-Berry Floor) put his offroad skills to good use today, having to run down an embankment to rejoin the chasing group following Beloki's crash
Two of Beloki's teammates stop and wait for him following his crash
Joseba Beloki (ONCE) on the ground following his crash on the last descent
Lance Armstrong (USPS-Berry Floor) takes a short cut across country to avoid the fallen Joseba Beloki, who crashed on the last descent of the 9th stage and abandoned the Tour

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Alexandre Vinokourov (Telekom) crosses the line, rocking the baby, as he wins stage 9
Alexandre Vinokourov (Telekom) wins the ninth stage to Gap
Paolo Bettini (Quick.Step) leads home Mayo (obscured) and Armstrong for second place behind Vinokourov
Paolo Bettini (Quick.Step) after crossing the line in second
Lance Armstrong (USPS-Berry Floor) finished fourth in today's tough stage to Gap
Tyler Hamilton (CSC) moments after crossing the line in 10th
Alexandre Vinokourov (Telekom) in the hands of his soigneurs at the finish
Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) crossed in 36th and kept his polka dot climber's jersey
Alexandre Vinokourov (Telekom) on the podium after his win
Alexandre Vinokourov (Telekom) with his stage 9 winner's trophy
Lance Armstrong (USPS-Berry Floor) had his yellow jersey threatened again today, but he kept it
Lance Armstrong (USPS-Berry Floor) adding to his large stuffed lion collection
Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) gets his polka dotted jersey presented by Laurent Jalabert, the winner of the dots for the last two years (now retired).

Stage 8 - Sunday, July 13: Sallanches - L'Alpe d'Huez, 219 km

Images by Jonathan Devich/Cyclingnews.com, epicimages.us

Today the route headed deeper into the Alps.
A Frenchman heads up the climb with lunch in his back pocket.
Race winner Iban Mayo (Euskaltel) gets closer to the finish.
Alexandre Vinokourov (Telekom) keeps up his pace on the climb.
The chase group is headed up by Joseba Beloki.
Lance Armstrong leads Tyler Hamilton on the way to the top.
Roberto Heras (USPS) looking a little worse for the wear after his crash on a descent.
Jan Ullrich (Team Bianchi) fought hard today and ended up 3'36" back.
David Millar (Cofidis) rides in to the finish solo.
A group makes its way up the mountain.
Richard Virenque (Quick.Step) during his last kilometres in yellow.
George Hincapie and Floyd Landis (USPS) cruise in together after much hard work today.
Another of the groups makes its way through turn 3.
Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) limps in on his possibly too light Cannondale.
The sprinters group passes the 3 km to go mark.
Robbie McEwen (Lotto-Domo) not happy about getting help from a fan.

Images by Chris Henry/Cyclingnews.com

An exhausted Joseba Beloki crosses the line after an attacking day on Alpe d'Huez
Haimar Zubeldia played his part in a big day for Euskaltel-Euskadi
Pietro Caucchioli (Alessio) rode steadily to finish 10th at Alpe d'Huez
Mikel Astarloza (Ag2r) hit the Alpe first, along with Didier Rous, but the two were no match for the tempo set by US Postal
Michael Rogers Quick.Step) was forced to pace yellow jersey Richard Virenque up the climb to Alpe d'Huez

Images by Olympia Photo

Before the stage Richard Virenque had both the polka dot and yellow jerseys (he didn't wear this one during the stage)
Paolo Bettini (Quick.Step) got a couple of lions before the stage by being part of the winning team yesterday
Viatcheslav Ekimov (USPS) gives his team captain Lance Armstrong a feed
Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) spent a day in yellow, watched closely by Armstrong and the gang
Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) on the Col du Galibier during stage 8
David Millar (Cofidis) was dropped on the Galibier, but fought his way back on on the descent
The top of the Col du Galibier is formidable...
Jan Ullrich (Team Bianchi) had to go to his limits on Alpe d'Huez, but still lost 3'36 to Iban Mayo
Jan Ullrich (Team Bianchi) suffering a lot on Alpe d'Huez
Iban Mayo (Euskaltel) on his way to the win

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Iban Mayo (Euskaltel-Euskadi) had the ride of his life to win the stage to Alpe d'Huez
Alexandre Vinokourov (Telekom) en route to second place
Beloki leads Laiseka and Armstrong on one of the final bends
Ivan Basso (Fassa Bortolo) did well to finish 8th at 2'12
Francesco Mancebo and Roberto Laiseka tough it out at the top of the climb
Roberto Heras (USPS) crashed but rode an excellent race in the service of Armstrong
Jan Ullrich (Team Bianchi) ended up 13th at 3'36 today
Christophe Moreau (CA) fought hard to finish 11th at 3'36
Stefano Garzelli (Vini Caldirola) didn't have a great day, and finished 15th at 4'46
A bunch cruises around one of the many hairpin bends that Alpe d'Huez is famous for
Nice scenery but most riders are thinking about when this climb will end
A large group nears the top of Alpe d'Huez
Iban Mayo (Euskaltel-Euskadi) celebrates his win on Alpe d'Huez
Lance Armstrong (USPS-Berry Floor) leads a group home for third place
Iban Mayo (Euskaltel-Euskadi) with his stage 8 trophy on the podium
After the dust settled Lance Armstrong found himself in the Maillot Jaune

Images by AFP Photo

Lance Armstrong (USPS-Berry Floor) with a struggling Tyler Hamilton and Iban Mayo on his wheel during stage 8
Laszlo Bodrogi (Quick.Step) leads the peloton in the early part of stage 8
Iban Mayo (Euskaltel-Euskadi) had a great ride to put over 2'00 into Armstrong
Iban Mayo (Euskaltel-Euskadi) salutes the crowds en route to victory
Iban Mayo (Euskaltel-Euskadi) on the podium after his win
Iban Mayo (Euskaltel-Euskadi) wins the eighth stage on Alpe d'Huez
Jan Ullrich (Team Bianchi) suffered to lost 3'36 to Mayo and 1'00 to Armstrong
Alexandre Vinokourov (Telekom) finishes in second place, 1'45 behind Mayo
Lance Armstrong (USPS-Berry Floor) took the yellow jersey today, but perhaps not quite in the way he wanted
Roberto Laiseka (Euskaltel) leads Joseba Beloki (R) and Lance Armstrong (L) on the Alpe d'Huez climb

Images by Jeff Tse & Monique du Bois/jeffreytse1@yahoo.com

Roberto Laiseka (Euskaltel) controls the Armstrong chase group
Tyler Hamilton (CSC) rode an incredible race today, making several attacks despite his broken collarbone
Massimiliano Lelli (Cofidis) grabs a bottle of water during his climb of Alpe d'huez
Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) had another off day, and there are doubts as to whether he'll finish the Tour
The Maillot Jaune Richard Virenque climbs Alpe d'Huez during stage 8
Alpe d'Huez 21 bends, spectacular scenery and big, big crowds

Images by Mitchell Clinton/www.clintonphoto.com

Didier Rous (FDJeux.com) and Mikel Astarloza (AG2r) were the first to the foot of L'Alpe, but were caught with 10km to go.
Roberto Heras (US Postal) sets the pace for his leader Lance Armstrong.
Iban Mayo (Euskatel-Euskadi) pulled off the ride of his life on the Alpe today.
Joseba Beloki (ONCE-Eroski) repeatedly attacked the group containing Armstrong.
Stefano Garzelli (Vini Caldirola-So.Di) and Jan Ullrich (Team Bianchi) do it tough on L'Alpe d'Huez.
Jan Ullrich (Bianchi) finished almost 1'30 down on Armstrong et al., and 3'40 behind Mayo.
Jorg Jaksche (ONCE-Eroski) finished 4'30" down on Mayo, along with Garzelli, Totsching and Beltran.
Angel Casero (Team Bianchi) is yet to find his legs at the Centenary Tour de France.
David Millar (Cofidis) had a reasonable day in the Alps, finishing six minutes in arrears of Mayo.
Maillot Jaune Richard Virenque spent his biscuits on the previous day's stage, but still finished the day in the polka-dot jersey.
Postal workhorses George Hincapie and Floyd Landis cruise up the Alpe at their own pace.

More images by Jeff Tse & Monique du Bois/jeffreytse1@yahoo.com

Crowds gathering on the day of Alpe'd Huez.
Motor traffic was stopped 5 hours before the peloton was to arrive.
The road was covered with more paint than ever.
Crowds were packed from 4kms to the top.

Stage 7 - Saturday, July 12: Lyon - Morzine, 230.5 km

Images by Chris Henry/Cyclingnews.com

Saeco's Gerrit Glomser sporting the "Legalize my Cannondale" jersey
Gilberto Simoni's Cannondale had to be weighted down in order to be over the UCI's 6.8 kg limit. Unfortunately for Simoni, his legs were like lead today too.
Gilberto Simoni's weighted carbon/aluminium Cannondale
Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) crosses the line and enters the media frenzy
Sylvain Chavanel (Brioches la Boulangere) rode to third place and an early confirmation of his Tour potential
Mederic Clain (Cofidis) spent much of the day in no-man's land between the break and the peloton
Another flawless day for Jan Ullrich (Team Bianchi)
Christophe Moreau (Credit Agricole) was satisfied with his first day in the mountains
Stefano Garzelli (Vini Caldirola) recovered from early difficulties and helped lead home the main group
Santiago Botero (Telekom) had a rough first day in the Alps
A last day in yellow for Victor Hugo Peña (USPS-Berry Floor)

Images by Jonathan Devich/Cyclingnews.com, epicimages.us

Frankie Andreu does his daily OLN segment from the start village.
Some of the scenery from the start in Lyon.
Tyler Hamilton (CSC) seemed like the pain of his broken collar bone was wearing on him before the day started.
Victor Hugo Pena (USPS) starts the day for his last time in yellow.
The break with Bettini, Virenque, Poilvet and Aldag.
Richard Virenque focuses on the road ahead.
Mederic Clain spends some time alone trying to get to the break.
The USPS team spent most of the day on the front.
Victor Hugo Pena stays out of the wind behind team leader Lance Armstrong.
Pierre Bourquenoud fights his way up the climb in the heat of the day.
A CSC rider descends through farm country.
Isidro Nozal picks up some water bottles for the rest of the team.
Alessandro Petacchi leaves the Tour with four wins out of four sprints.

mages by Olympia Photo

Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) with 'illegal' Cannondale before the stage
Somehow we don't think these weights made it all the way to the finish...
Alessandro Petacchi (Fassa Bortolo) got in the car after 50km
Jesus Manzano (Kelme) is treated for dehydration after collapsing on the Col des Portes
Tyler Hamilton (CSC) rides with strapped collarbone visible in stage 7
Nicki Sorensen (CSC) filmed by a TV crew as he suffers
Paolo Bettini (Quick.Step-Davitamon) rode like a Trojan all day for Virenque
Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) starts to lose contact with the lead bunch
The blue train of US Postal-Berry Floor completely controlled the peloton during stage 7
Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) recovers after the stage
Rolf Aldag (Telekom) sees spots on the Col de la Ramaz
Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) obeys the signs
Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) en route to victory
Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) had an 11 year wait for this jersey

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) fights with his bike at the top of the Col de la Ramaz
US Postal's blue train did its work for Armstrong yet again
Lance Armstrong (USPS-Berry Floor) leads Christophe Moreau (CA) on the Col de la Ramaz
Laurent Dufaux (L) and Joseba Beloki (R) had strong rides to finish in the leading group
Ivan Basso (Fassa Bortolo) rides in front of Iban Mayo (R) on the Ramaz
Stefano Garzelli (Vini Caldirola) suffering on the Col de la Ramaz
The peloton descends off the Col de la Ramaz
Victor Hugo Pena (USPS) spent his last day in yellow as a domestique for Lance Armstrong
Rolf Aldag (Telekom) had a courageous ride to finish second to Virenque
David Millar (Cofidis) suffered to hold on to Armstrong's group on the Ramaz
Santi Botero (Telekom) had his usual off day on the first day in the mountains
Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) suffered big time on the Col de la Ramaz to eventually lose over 6 minutes to Armstrong
Can you drink it? Virenque's rather odd looking trophy
Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) wins the stage into Morzine, as he did in 2000
Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) with the little Virenques on the podium
Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) delighted with his new jersey
Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) is now the wearer of the Maillot Jaune
Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) also gained the polka dotted climber's jersey today

Images by Mitchell Clinton/www.clintonphoto.com

These supporters look like they've just come from the Super Bowl.
Paolo Bettini's (Quick Step-Davitamon) early move allowed him to play the perfect domestique role when Richard Virenque bridged across.
Rolf Aldag (Telekom) was one of the early break of four containing Paolo Bettini.
Lance Armstrong (US Postal) sits in the comfort of his teammates, flanked by Jan Ullrich (Bianchi).
Last day in the maillot pois for Christophe Mengin (FDJeux.com) after fellow countryman Richard Virenque won the stage into Morzine.

Stage 6 - Friday, July 11: Nevers - Lyon, 230 km

Images by Jonathan Devich/Cyclingnews.com, epicimages.us

An up close look at the 10-speed Dura-Ace cranks of Lance Armstrong.
Father and son's name on the same bike.
Carbon cranks and wheels for Tyler Hamilton.
A little Tour artwork at the start village in Nevers.
The first break of the day tries to make it stick as the bunch bears down on them.
Jacob Piil (CSC) was one of the riders trying to make the break stick.
Two Telekom riders lead at the front to bring back the break.
Stuart O'Grady (Credit Agricole) before his breakaway attempt today, rides next to Jose Luis Rubiera.
Stefano Zanini (Saeco) rides in the bunch.
The break just after reaching the top of today's climb.
Frederic Finot (Jean Delatour) rode conservatively today in the climbers jersey.
ONCE rider Isidro Nozal on his way to the descent.
Fans cheer as the Maillot Jaune goes past.
Manuel Beltran (USPS-Berry Floor) reaches the summit of the climb.
Victor Hugo Peña (USPS-Berry Floor) makes the turn to descend to Lyon.
Riders make their way to the summit.

Image by Chris Henry/Cyclingnews.com

Stuart O'Grady (Credit Agricole) looking hot and bothered after stage 6

Images by Jeff Tse & Monique du Bois/jeffreytse1@yahoo.com

Australian champion Stuart O'Grady (Credit Agricole) spent four and a half hours in a break with Anthony Geslin in stage 6
The peloton makes its way up a long, steady drag during the sixth stage of the Tour
Victor Hugo Pena (USPS-Berry Floor) spent another hot day in yellow
Stuart O'Grady (Credit Agricole) looking hot and bothered after stage 6

Images by Olympia Photo

O'Grady and Geslin were the main animators of the day
Jan Ullrich (Team Bianchi) wonders what's in store for tomorrow
The absence of Cipollini has annoyed at least one fan in France
Alessandro Petacchi (Fassa Bortolo) suffers in the bunch during stage 7
Petacchi first, daylight second in Lyon
Alessandro Petacchi (Fassa Bortolo) notched up his fourth in Lyon

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Robbie McEwen (Lotto-Domo) rolls up to the start
Best young rider Vladimir Karpets (iBanesto) at the start of the stage
Danilo Di Luca (Saeco) - the water carrier extraordinaire!
Iban Mayo (Euskaltel) wonders what's in store
Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) waiting to go
Erik Zabel (Telekom) checks his bike at the start
Brad McGee (FDJeux.com) stretches before the start
Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) brushes up on L'Equipe
No time to zip up the jersey but there is little mistaking the winner of the sixth stage
Green jersey wearer Alessandro Petacchi will need the other hand soon
Lance Armstrong (USPS) looks all set for tomorrow in the mountains
Laurent Brochard (AG2r) after his crash
Robbie McEwen (Lotto-Domo) crashed with 5 km to go and lost all his chances at victory
Alessandro Petacchi is the king of the sprinters at the moment
Victor Pena (USPS-Berry Floor) in yellow at the end of the day

Image by Yuzuru Sunada

Giancarlo Ferretti is more than happy with his gun sprinter Alessandro Petacchi

Stage 5 - Thursday, July 10: Troyes - Nevers, 196.5 km

Images by Jonathan Devich/Cyclingnews.com, epicimages.us

Victor Hugo Peña gets a surprise birthday cake at the start of today's stage.
Victor Hugo Peña also got a taste of the region's best Champagne.
The USPS team gets presented at the start of today's stage.
Three of today's early breakaway riders Nicolas Jalabert, Laszlo Bodrogi and Jens Voigt.
The peloton is seen in the distance as the break just goes out of view.
The yellow jersey rides at the front of the peloton surrounded by teammates in blue.
Hot temperatures and wide open fields greeted the riders today.
Alessandro Petacchi (Fassa Bortolo) makes it three out of three.
ONCE's Angel Vicioso limps across the line after going down in the final kilometres. He sustained a double fracture to his radius.
Victor Hugo Peña (USPS) was all smiles after spending his first day in yellow.
Frederic Finot (Jean Delatour) heads into stage 6 with the climber's jersey.
Alessandro Petacchi (Fassa Bortolo) holds the stage winner's trophy high.

Images by Chris Henry/Cyclingnews.com

Road crews tried to keep melting tar to a minimum by spraying water on the road before the race
Tyler Hamilton (CSC) works his way gingerly to the start
Fabio Baldato (Alessio) grabs a drink after another hot day
Santiago Botero (Telekom) finished the team trial fresh, and looked happy after stage 5
Anthony Geslin (Brioches) does his best to cool off after the stage
Lance Armstrong (USPS) makes his customary quick exit after the finish
Viatcheslav Ekimov (USPS) feels the heat in Nevers

Images by Olympia Photo

Victor Hugo Pena (USPS) gets rid of some of his "weight in champagne"
Victor Hugo Pena (USPS) is fast under water as well as on dry land
Alessandro Petacchi (Fassa Bortolo) hard at work signing autographs
There is not much fat on Gilberto Simoni's legs...
The fifth stage was undulating as the five riders in the break can attest
The peloton ride through green fields during stage 5
Plenty of colour en route during stage 5 to Nevers
The peloton cruise along en masse during the Tour's fifth stage
Paolo Bettini (Quick.Step) rides in front of Lance Armstrong during stage 5

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Yellow jersey wearer Victor Pena was awarded his weight in champagne at the start. Oohlala.
Victor Pena was also a swimming champion in his country
US Postal-Berry Floor presented with their lions before the start of stage 5
Lance Armstrong and David Millar shake hands at the start of stage 5
Lance Armstrong (USPS) looking relaxed at the start of stage 5
Jan Ullrich (Team Bianchi) has kept out of trouble so far in week one
German champ Erik Zabel (Telekom) still hunting for an elusive win
Christophe Moreau (CA) checks out his bike at the start
Tyler Hamilton (CSC) feeling the heat, but he won't give up
Alessandro Petacchi (Fassa Bortolo) holds up three fingers to signify the number of Tour stage wins he has
Santiago Botero (Telekom) cools off at the finish
For the third time Alessandro Petacchi salutes the crowd from the podium
New Maillot Pois Frederic Finot (Jean Delatour) after scoring 10 mountain points in the fifth stage

Images by Yuzuru Sunada

David Millar (L) and Laurent Jalabert (R) cross paths during the Tour
Happy birthday! Victor Hugo Pena is one of only four riders to wear the yellow jersey on his birthday

Stage 4 - Wednesday, July 9: Joinville - Saint-Dizier, TTT, 69 km

Images by Chris Henry/Cyclingnews.com

US Postal directeur sportif Johan Bruyneel congatulates Chechu Rubiera on the team's stage victory

Images by Jonathan Devich/Cyclingnews.com, epicimages.us

Lance Armstrong rides through the shadows while helping power his team to first place.
Team ONCE looked very smooth out on the road.
Joseba Beloki keeps the hammer down during the TT.
The iBanesto team head out onto the open road.
Tyler Hamilton's CSC team holds a double paceline on their way to 10th place.
Tyler Hamilton during the TTT.
The Quick.Step-Davitamon team bunches up during the TT.
Richard Virenque worked hard during the TTT.
Rabobank riders rotate through while out on the road.
Kelme couldn't quite get it together today finishing 3:49 down.
Lotto-Domo was a bit slow on the road today finishing in last place.

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

US Postal-Berry Floor had the winning combination today
Victor Hugo Pena (USPS-Berry Floor) is delighted with his first ever yellow jersey
Jean Delatour tried to defend the yellow jersey of Jean-Patrick Nazon, but could only finish 20th of the 22 teams
Jan Ullrich's Bianchi squad powered to 3rd in the stage today
Alessio lost a couple of minutes in the TTT
Didier Rous leads the Brioches la Boulangere train
Robbie McEwen's Lotto-Domo team had nothing to ride for today and finished last
Fassa Bortolo were a modest 12th today
Saeco looked better than they rode today, as they lost 3'02 to finish 17th
Vini Caldirola did well to finish in seventh
Team Telekom started well, but lost momentum over the second half
iBanesto.com surprised everyone to finish fourth
Credit Agricole finished a solid eighth
Kelme-Costa Blanca disappointed in the TTT to finish 21st
David Millar was too strong for Cofidis
Tyler Hamilton did his fair share of work in the CSC TTT, which finished 10th
Quick.Step-Davitamon rode well to finish fifth
The huge form of Michael Rich drives the Gerolsteiner team along
Rabobank started with seven men, and could only limit the damage to 2'41, better than some teams
ONCE-Eroski rode well, but couldn't finish on top of US Postal today
Jaan Kirsipuu drives the Ag2r train
The Euskaltel boys lost out big time today, finishing 3'22 off the pace of USPS
FDJeux.com had to look after everyone in the team, and finished 19th
The US Postal-Berry Floor team celebrate their win on the podium

Images by Yuzuru Sunada

Lance Armstrong (R) helped power his US Postal-Berry Floor team to victory in today's team time trial
The American flag was prominent as Lance Armstrong and the USPS boys stood on the podium

Images by Olympia Photo

US Postal-Berry Floor glides among the wheat fields during the stage 4 team time trial between Joinville and St Dizier
Lance Armstrong just after finishing was very satisfied with his team's victory
Victor Hugo Pena (USPS-Berry Floor) is delighted with yellow, and all it entails...
Victor Hugo Pena (USPS-Berry Floor) on the podium, about to be awarded the Maillot Jaune
George Hincapie punches the air as he crosses the line as part of the winning US Postal-Berry Floor team

Images by Jeff Tse & Monique du Bois/jeffreytse1@yahoo.com

Lance Armstrong and George Hincapie swap off in the Postal train
George Hincapie was one of the key men for the Postal squad in the TTT
ONCE rode well to finish second behind USPS
Team Bianchi was good today, ending third
Thomas Liese does a big turn for his Bianchi mates
iBanesto.com was the surprise packet, finishing 4th
Quick.Step-Davitamon rode well for 5th
Mario Aerts (L) and Santi Botero (R) driving Team Telekom to 6th spot
Romans Vainsteins (R) pulls off after having done a turn in the Vini Caldirola paceline
Credit Agricole had a good ride to finish 8th
Ag2r-Prevoyance finished in the top 10
Team CSC had a tough day in the TTT
Gerolsteiner driven by the huge Michael Rich and the battered Rene Haselbacher
The Fassa Bortolo boys gave it everything, but could only manage 12th
David Millar (R) was the standout in the Cofidis team
Brioches la Boulangere was one of the first teams to start, and finished 15th
Rabobank suffered for 16th place
Saeco looked good but rode (relatively) badly, finishing 17th of the 22 teams
Euskaltel-Euskadi couldn't get it together and finished 18th
FDJeux.com followed the plan and rode steady, for 19th
Kelme was dissapointing with 21st place
Rik Verbrugghe leads the Lotto-Domo team which finished dead last, despite averaging over 49 km/h

Stage 3 - Tuesday, July 8: Charleville-Mézières - Saint-Dizier, 167.5 km

Images by Jonathan Devich/Cyclingnews.com, epicimages.us

Lance Armstrong and Giro winner Gilberto Simoni shake hands at the start.
The USPS team gets presented with the Credit Lyonnais lions before the start of today's stage.
Bjarne Riis interviewed about the state of Tyler Hamilton.
The domestique's duties start even before the race does.
Stuart O'Grady (CA) was all smiles at the start of today's stage.
A little action at the front after the peloton begins the day.
A few riders go off the front to get today's mountain points.
Bradley McGee (FDJeux.com) spends another day on the road in yellow.
Jimmy Casper (FDJeux.com) rode again today with a neck brace from his crash on Monday.
Robbie McEwen (Lotto-Domo) flanked by a couple of Telekom riders.
Floyd Landis (USPS) takes a minute to clean his sunglasses at the front of the peloton.
I think it's time for a "natural" for Davide Rebellin.
Tyler Hamilton (CSC), with shoulder taped up looked a little more relaxed on the bike during today's stage.
Anthony Geslin (Brioches) spent 70K off the front today solo.

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Best of friends Lance Armstrong and Gilberto Simoni shake hands at the start
Alessandro Petacchi (Fassa Bortolo, L) with teammate Aitor Gonzalez before the start
Brad McGee (FDJeux.com) happily signs autographs for fans
Paolo Bettini (Quick.Step-Davitamon) checks the spokes in his wheel
Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) signs autographs at the start
Richard Virenque to Santi Botero: "What have you done to your hair?"
Jan Ullrich (Team Bianchi) checks his bike
Jan Ullrich and Fabrizio Guidi (Team Bianchi) pose at the start
Brad McGee (FDJeux.com) rolls up to the start
Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) looks to see if he has in fact got brake cables
Alessandro Petacchi (Fassa Bortolo) punches the air as he wins the third stage
Congratulations all round from Petacchi's Fassa Bortolo teammates
Jean Delatour's Jean-Patrick Nazon is very happy with his new yellow jersey

Images by Olympia Photo

Stuart O'Grady (Credit Agricole) descends during the third stage
Fabio Sacchi (Saeco) and his mascot, the leopard
Guess who this rider is?
Stéphane Auge (Credit Agricole) gets a puncture and a wheel change
Italian champion Paolo Bettini (Quick.Step-Davitamon) rides during stage 3
Tyler Hamilton (CSC) finished the third stage in 43 place, but is still obviously suffering from his broken collarbone
Alessandro Petacchi (Fassa Bortolo) is dwarfed by the Tour podium
Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) rides during stage 3
Jean Patrick Nazon (Jean Delatour) can't believe that he's got the Maillot Jaune
Alessandro Petacchi (Fassa Bortolo) wins the stage in St Dizier

Images by Elmar Krings

Alessandro Petacchi (Fassa Bortolo) looked very slick at the start of stage 3
Race leader Brad McGee (FDJeux.com) enjoyed one more day in yellow
Tyler Hamilton (CSC) surrounded by the media at the start of stage 3
Rene Haselbacher (Gerolsteiner) started off looking good, but ended the day on the deck in the finishing straight
Joseba Beloki (ONCE) rides up to the start
Paolo Bettini (Quick.Step-Davitamon) multi-tasks
Santiago Botero (Telekom) is waiting for the TTT and the mountains
Oscar Freire (Rabobank) had a better sprint today to finish third
Giuseppe Guerini (Telekom) chats to ONCE's Angel Vicioso at the start, taking care to avoid the moustache
Jean-Marie Leblanc is the Big Boss of the Tour
What's in the bag of this bandaged Kelme rider?
Stuart O'Grady (Credit Agricole) with his go fast stripes on
Victor Hugo Pena (USPS-Berry Floor) is happy to be at the Tour, as always
Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) before the stage 3 start
Erik Zabel gets directions from his wife

Stage 2 - Monday, July 7: La Ferté-sous-Jouarre - Sedan, 204.5 km

Images by Jonathan Devich/Cyclingnews.com, epicimages.us

Richard Virenque waves to his screaming fans after signing in today.
The peloton rolls through champagne country.
Jean Deletour and FDJ cover the front of the peloton as their men in the break put over 11 minutes on the field.
Baden Cooke (FDJeux.com) takes the win over Jean-Patrick Nazon and Jaan Kirsipuu.
Bradley McGee answers questions about keeping the yellow jersey today.
Jimmy Casper comes across the line showing the outcome of yesterday’s crash.
Bradley McGee (FDJeux.com) on the podium and in the yellow jersey for another day.
Robbie McEwen (Lotto-Domo) goes into stage 3 wearing the green sprinters jersey.

Images by Chris Henry/Cyclingnews.com

Tyler Hamilton's bike was fitted with three layers of gel handlebar tape to help dampen vibrations
Stefano Zanini (Saeco) models the latest in knee bandage fashion
Jan Ullrich (Team Bianchi) finished safely in 21st on stage 2
Baden Cooke gave FDJeux.com its second stage win and third distinctive jersey of the Tour
It was a long day in the saddle for Tyler Hamilton (CSC) nursing a fractured collarbone
Erik Zabel celebrated his 33rd birthday and his fans were on hand to wish him well

Images by AFP Photo

The colourful peloton race during the second stage of the Tour de France
Lance Armstrong (USPS) adjusts his sunglasses during stage 2
Lance Armstrong (USPS) had a fairly quiet day in the peloton, keeping out of trouble
Frederic Finot (Jean Delatour) takes off with around 40 km to go
Frederic Finot (Jean Delatour) leads Lilian Jegou (Credit Agricole) in their very long breakaway attempt
A crash in the final 15 km took down Marco Milesi (Vini Caldirola) and Olaf Pollack (Gerolsteiner) among others
Against all odds Tyler Hamilton (CSC) started stage 2 with a fractured collarbone
Baden Cooke (FDJeux.com) yells as he wins the second stage
Jimmy Casper (FDJeux.com) spent the day in a neck brace, but survived
Bradley McGee (FDJeux.com) did more than survive another day at the Tour, and kept his yellow jersey

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

It was Erik Zabel's 33rd birthday today and he got a cake clearly made by someone who is lying about his age
Baden Cooke (FDJeux.com) wins the second stage into Sedan in front of Jean-Patrick Nazon (Jean Delatour, C) and Jaan Kirsipuu (Ag2r, R)
Baden Cooke (FDJeux.com) gets a hug from teammate and race leader Brad McGee after his stage win
Baden Cooke (FDJeux.com) on the podium, very happy with his win

More images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Jaan Kirsipuu (Ag2r) signs an autograph before the start
Brad McGee (FDJeux.com) discovers the magnetic autograph-hunter-attracting power of the yellow jersey.
Lance Armstrong (US Postal) ready for another day in the office
Tyler Hamilton (CSC) elected to start despite a clearly painful broken collarbone
Alessandro Petacchi (Fassa Bortolo) overcomes his shyness to sign an autograph for a fan
Jan Ullrich (Bianchi) signs autographs
Someone forgot to order the middle bit of the arch
Team Saeco riders perform pre-flight checks
Baden Cooke (FDJeux.com) celebrates his victory as he crosses the line
Baden Cooke (FDJeux.com) enjoys his podium moment

Stage 1 - Sunday, July 6: Saint-Denis/Montgeron - Meaux, 168 km

Images by Jonathan Devich/Cyclingnews.com, epicimages.us

A few fans showed up in Montgeron the site of the start of the first Tour de France, in turn of the century dress.
Cycling fans displayed bicycles and dress of the time when the Tour first ran.
Government and Tour officials broke a bottle of champagne on the sculpture that commemorates the beginning of the Tour.
The peloton rides through the fields south of Paris on stage 1.
The all-French breakaway of Christophe Mengin, Andy Flickinger and Walter Beneteau.
US Postal-Berry Floor groups at the front as Credit Agricole and Fassa Bortolo pick up the pace.
Stuart O'Grady (Credit Agricole) moves to the front.
CSC rider Jacob Piil in the middle of the pack
Fans with yellow wheels greet the peloton as they roll into town.

Images by Chris Henry/Cyclingnews.com

Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) after the stage, somewhat shaken but no injuries.
Stage winner Alessandro Petacchi (Fassa Bortolo) speaks after opening his Tour victory account
Fourth place Paolo Bettini (Quick.Step-Davitamon) showed the strains of a tough day
Oscar Freire (Rabobank) did not have the Tour debut he hoped for
Lance Armstrong and two teammates were caught in the finishing crash
Fabio Baldato (Alessio) suffered cuts to both legs in the crash
Andy Flickinger (Ag2R-Prevoyance) worked hard but his break couldn't succeed against the sprinters
Gerolsteiner rider Olaf Pollack gets a helping hand after the finish line melee
Walter Beneteau (Brioches La Boulangere) also tried his chances in the day's three man escape
Levi Leipheimer, also a victim of the crash appeared uneasy as he left the finish

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

The peloton roll past the start outside the Au Reveil Matin, where the Tour started in 1903
Alessandro Petacchi (Fassa Bortolo) wins the first stage in Meaux
Alessandro Petacchi (Fassa Bortolo) salutes from the podium
Bradley McGee (FDJeux.com) survived the first day with his Maillot Jaune intact

Images by AFP

Erik Zabel makes faces at his wife before the race
Bradley McGee talks with British David Millar as Jimmy Casper looks on
Bradley McGee (Fdjeux.com) and British David Millar (Cofidis) ride side by side
Lance Armstrong pulls a face during the stage. His humour was soon to change
Armstrong walks his bike after a fall a few meters before the finish line
A doctor takes care of Marc Lotz (Rabobank) after the finish line crash. Lotz has a suspected fracture to the bone under his eye

Prologue - Saturday, July 5: Paris, Prologue TT, 6.5 km

Images by Chris Henry/Cyclingnews.com

The Village Depart under the Eiffel Tower
Erik Zabel (Telekom) spins the legs
Tyler Hamilton (CSC) looked relaxed before his late day ride
David Millar (Cofidis) with his customary pre-race music
Giro winner Gilberto Simoni huddled under the Saeco tent
Lance Armstrong gives the rundown on his modest prologue performance
Lance Armstrong takes a cool down spin and sums up the day
Bradley McGee (FDJeux.com), a very happy customer in yellow

Images by Jonathan Devich/Cyclingnews.com, epicimages.us

Tyler Hamilton (CSC) gives it his all to place sixth in the opening stage of the Tour.
French hope Christophe Moreau (Credit Agricole) had a disappointing prologue to finish in 135th place.
A fit-looking George Hincapie (US Postal-Berry Floor) flashes by in the aero position.
Maillot jaune Lance Armstrong (US Postal-Berry Floor) didn't have his best day, finishing seven seconds off the the of Brad McGee.
As reigning individual pursuit world champion, Brad McGee (FDJeux.com) found the length perfectly suited to his abilities.
Mechanical problems plagued David Millar's otherwise perfect performance today.
Today's surprise package was Haimar Zubeldia (Euskaltel-Euskadi) who finished third.
World TT champion Santiago Botero (Telekom) rode superbly for a top 10 placing.
Victor Hugo Pena (US Postal-Berry Floor) will be one of Armstrong's most useful lieutenants as the Tour approaches the mountains.
Jan Ullrich (Team Bianchi) showed he's back with a fine fourth place.
Robbie McEwen (Lotto-Domo) proudly wears the Australian colours on his helmet.

Images by Jeff Tse & Monique du Bois/jeffreytse1@yahoo.com

Brad McGee (FDJeux.com) en route to victory in the prologue of the Tour de France
Brad McGee (FDJeux.com) was too fast for everyone today, and flew to his biggest ever win
David Millar (Cofidis) came so close, but a mechanical cost him valuable seconds at the finish
David Millar (Cofidis) went fast enough, but the loss of his chain near the end probably cost him the win. Interestingly, Millar did not ride with a front derailleur.
Lance Armstrong (USPS) was just a little off his best today, finishing 7th
Lance Armstrong (USPS) didn't want to start in yellow, but was persuaded by Jean Marie Leblanc to do so
Haimar Zubeldia (Euskaltel) surprised everyone with his third place
Jan Ullrich (Team Bianchi) had a very good ride to finish fourth, just 2 seconds behind McGee
Victor Pena (USPS) even finished in front of his captain Armstrong today
Joseba Beloki (ONCE) rode well enough to finish in eighth place
World time trial champion Santiago Botero (Telekom) had a rare chance to sport his rainbow stripes in the prologue of the Tour de France
George Hincapie (USPS) set a good time early on, that eventually gave him 13th overall
Levi Leipheimer (Rabobank) started his Tour de France off on a good note with a 12th place in the prologue
Levi Leipheimer (Rabobank) grits his teeth and gives it everything
Gilberto Simoni (Saec) rode very well for 21st
Robbie McEwen (Lotto-Domo) had the green helmet on, and finished in 7'58, well off the pace of his compatriot Brad McGee
Stuart O'Grady (CA) was not at his best today, although he only conceded 22 seconds
A top 10 finish for Vjatceslav Ekimov gave the US Postal boys four men in the top 13
Baden Cooke (FDJeux.com) acquitted himself well in the prologue, finishing 45th at 20"
Jose Luis Rubiera (USPS) conceded 30 seconds to McGee in the prologue
Tyler Hamilton (CSC) showed good form to finish 6th, just ahead of Lance Armstrong
Matt Wilson (FDJeux.com) will be protecting McGee's Maillot Jaune tomorrow
An admitted slow starter Michael Rogers (Quick.Step) finished a respectable 19th
Lotto-Domo's Leon van Bon concentrates on his ride
Fred Rodriguez (Vini Caldirola) gets a good narrow profile during his TT

Images by AFP

Brad McGee (FDJeux.com) can't believe what he's just achieved as he dons the yellow tunic as leader of the Tour de France.
The American flag was out in force as defending champ Lance Armstrong (US Postal-Berry Floor) powered around the course.
Joseba Beloki (ONCE-Eroski) is back once again to challenge Armstrong all the way to the finish.
World time trial champion Santiago Botero (Telekom) pounds his big chainring around the 6.5 km prologue.
Tyler Hamilton (CSC) rode brilliantly to finish in sixth place.
Guest rider Herman Maier looks like he'd prefer to be on two skis than two wheels.
Spanish hope Iban Mayo (Euskaltel-Euskadi) had a respectable ride, finishing 20 seconds in arrears of winner Bradley McGee.
Defending green jersey champion Robbie McEwen (Lotto-Domo) gave it his all.
Prologue winner Brad McGee (FDJeux.com) was oblivious to the spectacular backdrop of the Eiffel Tower.
David Millar (Cofidis) was terribly unlucky not to repeat his prologue win in the Tour three years ago.
Recent winner at the Route du Sud, Michael Rogers (Quick.Step-Davitamon) will be eagerly awaiting the longer time trials in this year's Tour.
Jan Ullrich (Team Bianchi) carves up the prologue course to score a place in the top five.
1997 Tour champion Jan Ullrich rides against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower.
Matthew Wilson (FDJeux.com), one of three Aussies in Marc Madiot's French team, pounds the pedals in his first Tour de France.
Tour de Suisse champion Alexandre Vinokourov (Team Telekom) is yet to prove himself in a three week Tour.

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Lance Armstrong didn't enjoy his usual prologue success
Brad McGee (FDJeux.com) shares his victory with his family
Brad McGee enjoys his podium moment

More images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Aitor Gonzalez (Fassa Bortolo) was almost 24 seconds back in 65th place
David Millar (Cofidis) had the ride of his life scuppered by a mechanical
Santiago Botero (Telekom) finished ninth in a slightly disappointing ride from the TT rainbow jersey
Joseba Beloki (ONCE) is known as a climber but delivered a threatening ride to take eighth

Images by Paul Rigby

Michael Boogerd (Rabobank) boogie woogies himself to 67th place.
Former Italian champion Salvatore Commesso (Saeco) looks to the road ahead.
George Hincapie (US Postal-Berry Floor) showed his return to form with a place in the top 15.
The crowd go wild as defending champion Lance Armstrong (US Postal-Berry Floor) rolls off the ramp in Paris.
Prologue winner Brad McGee (FDJeux.com) does the ride of his life to take the maillot jaune.
Previous Australian champion Nick Gates (Lotto-Domo) will be serving his friend and team-mate Robbie McEwen at the Centenary Tour.
Current Australian champion Stuart O'Grady (Credit Agricole) conceded 22 seconds to his countryman Bradley McGee.
Jan Ullrich (Team Bianchi) puts down the power through his massive quads.
French fans were delighted to see Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) back at the Tour.
German champion Erik Zabel (Telekom) stomps on the pedals through the streets of Paris.

Images by Alain Quenderf

The long road to the start hut
ONCE has some very special bikes for the Centenary Tour
The village depart
Euskaltel's Orbea at the Tour
A bunny-hop demo was among the entertainment at the start
Names, darling, names, names, names!
Let them eat cake?
Lance Armstrong rolls to the start hut
Fabio Baldato is ready to go
Ivan Basso looks like he's up to something
Paolo Bettini warms up before the prologue
Paolo Bettini assumes the position
Santiago Botero, international man of mystery
Laurent Brochard signs an autograph before the start
Laurent Brochard - the famous mullet is not thought to completely fill the tail of Brochard's aero helmet
Inigo Chaurreau warms up for the prologue
Stefano Garzelli warms up
Stefano Garzelli takes a last drink before the prologue
1965 winner Felice Gimondi was in town for the start of the Centenary Tour
Aitor Gonzalez looking confident before the prologue
Iban Mayo makes sure he knows what the team car looks like
Jorg Jaksche (right) and Rudy Pevenage
Vladimir Karpets ready to go
Levi Leipheimer sets off to the start hut
Brad McGee practices the vital prologue skill of exhaling
Iban Mayo before the start
Robbie McEwen looking nervous on the rollers
Robbie McEwen still seems to think he's being followed
Axel Merckx looking very lean
And he did.
Christophe Moreau smiles before the prologue
Alessandro Petacchi makes sure we get his good side
Davide Rebellin looks worried, as usual
Didier Rous warms up in the colours of French champion
Gilberto Simoni still has his Giro-pink Cannondale
Jan Ullrich would finish in fourth place
Rik Verbrugghe is after stage wins in this year's Tour - but the prologue was not to be one of them
Alexandre Vinokourov is one of Telekom's hopes for this year's Tour
Richard Virenque smiles at a fan
Richard Virenque rolls off to the start hut

The teams roll out - the presentation in Paris, July 4, 2003

Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

Freddy Rodriguez (Vini Caldirola) stands along with Roman Vansteins and teammates during the presentations.
He's everywhere!
Johan Bruyneel, US Postal directeur sportif, stands happily next to Lance Armstrong, Roberto Heras, Manuel Beltran and Viatchaslev Ekimov.
Jan Ullrich (Bianchi) looking happy at the presentation.
Levi Leipheimer (Rabobank) rolls out onto the stage.
Josebo Beloki (ONCE) is one of many possible rivals to Lance Armstrong on this year's Tour.
Student and master, Tyler Hamilton (CSC) and his team manager Bjarne Riis.
Baden Cooke (FdJeux.com) sports a retro jersey in honor of the centennial Tour.
The crowds look on as the Euskatel team is presented.
Team Saeco presented in person and wide screen TV.
Lance Armstrong (US Postal) rolls off the stage towards his possible 5th Tour win.
Lance Armstrong rolls onto the stage.

Images by Chris Henry/Cyclingnews.com

Dave Millar (Cofidis) takes to the stage - could this finally be the talented but erratic Scot's year?
Jan Ullrich (Bianchi) looks to be in excellent shape
Bjarne Riis - the CSC manager should have a good Tour with Tyler Hamilton and Carlos Sastre leading his team
Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) waves to the crowd
The FdJeux.com team rolls on to the stage
Aussie fans fly the flag as Aussie green jersey hope Stuart O'Grady appears on stage and screen.
US Postal lines up
Lance Armstrong rides along the stage.

Images by Alain Quenderf

The theme of this year's Tour caravan is retro - here's Jean Robic, winner of the first post-WWII in 1947
Vini Caldirola's team strip and car
"It's a fair cop." Christophe Moreau agrees to come quietly on suspicion of pinching Jean-Marie LeBlanc's lunch
Le Tour, 1950 style
Team bikes abound.
Bright screen, dark sky.
Miguel Indurain, five-time Tour winner, dropped by for the presentation.
Miguel Indurain talks to the press.
In case anyone was in doubt about what's going on.

Before the flood

A selection of pre-Tour images by AFP

Lance Armstrong (US Postal) training in the French countryside a couple of days before the start of the Tour de France
Lance Armstrong smiles for the camera
Lance Armstrong gets in some serious hammertime, tucked in on his TT bike. If previous years are any indicator, the time trials will be the races his opponents have to win.
Even a four-time Tour winner sometimes has to do his own wrenching.
"I'm sure it's round here somewhere..." Lance Armstrong and US Postal PR Jogi Muller find Paris has been removed from the map in a dastardly plot to prevent Armstrong fromwinning a fifth Tour.
Lance Armstrong undergoes the pre-race medical.
"You're not a real doctor!" And Roberto Heras doesn't play one on TV either. That stethoscope needs warming up too...
Lance Armstrong talks at the pre-race press conference
Christophe Moreau (Credit Agricole) is one of France's best hopes for a high Tour placing.
Stuart O'Grady is back at the Tour with two working legs and the green jersey in his sights.
Festivities leading up to the Tour have involved the 'Au Reveil Matin' cafe where the 1903 Tour started
Rumours that Tour director Jean-Marie LeBlanc is considering allowing minor French teams to use tandems are believed to be groundless.

Paris prepares

Images by Alain Quenderf

The Tour kicks off on July 4 with a presentation of the riders here in the square of the Paris Town Hall.
Riding that ramp is probably scarier than taking off down the prologue ramp.
By July 2 preparations were well advanced for the presentations with video screens in place.
Not quite the 2003 peloton in miniature.

2003 Tour de France presentation

Images by Chris Henry/Cyclingnews.com

Marco Pantani and Felice Gimondi, with Francesco Moser (l) looking on from row 2
Stephen Roche (r) gets an autograph from Lucien Van Impe
Gilberto Simoni (l) and Oscar Sevilla await the route unveiling
Classics specialists Johan Museeuw and Wilfried Peeters look on
Pedro Delgado, 1988 Tour winner
Greg LeMond, first American to win the Tour
Lance Armstrong takes his place on stage with the other Tour champions
A portrait for the ages: 21 of the 22 living Tour champions
1997 winner Jan Ullrich talks to Cyclingnews about his hopes for next year's Tour.
Lance Armstrong and Eddy Merckx. Between them they have won nine Tours de France.

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