91st Tour de France - July 3-25, 2004

Photos

• Click here for Stages 0-10
• Stage 11 - Thursday July 15: St Flour - Figeac, 164 km
• Stage 12 - July 16: Castelsarrasin - La Mongie, 197.5 km
• Stage 13 - July 17: Lannemezan - Plateau de Beille, 205.5 km
• Stage 14 - Sunday July 18: Carcassonne - Nimes, 192.5 km
• Stage 15 - July 20: Valreas - Villard-de-Lans, 180.5 km
• Stage 16 - July 21: Bourg d'Oisans - Alpe d'Huez ITT, 15.5 km
• Stage 17 - July 22: Bourg d'Oisans - Le Grand Bornand, 204.5 km
• Stage 18 - July 23: Annemasse - Lons le Saunier, 166.5 km
• Stage 19 - July 24: Besancon - Besancon ITT, 55 km
• Stage 20 - July 25: Montreau - Paris-Champs-Elysees, 163 km

Stage 20 - July 25: Montreau - Paris-Champs-Elysees, 163 km

Images by Jon Devich/www.epicimages.us

• Floyd Landis (USPS) leads the bunch down the Champs Elysees.
• Scott Sunderland (Alessio-Bianchi) leads the break across the Place de la Concorde
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) leads rival Ivan Basso into Paris.
• Lance Armstrong (USPS)
• The peloton heads towards the Arc d'Triomphe.
• Lance Armstrong 6 time Tour winner
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step-Davitamon) takes the bunch sprint.
• Lance Armstrong with hat off for the national anthem.
• Fans congratulate Lance Armstrong.
• Lance Armstrong on the podium for win number 6.
• Jersey winners (L to R): Robbie McEwen, Lance Armstrong, Richard Virenque and Vladimir Karpets.
• The Brioches La Boulangere team more than happy to have such a great Tour.
• The Cofidis team rides during the parade.
• Team Phonak including Tyler Hamilton, lines up at the end of the day.
• Teammates Jan Ullrich and Andreas Kloden happy at the end.
• Gerolsteiner done for the day.
• The USPS team after making history in the 2004 Tour.

Images by Chris Henry/Cyclingnews.com

• Floyd Landis (US Postal) dons his special team kit for the final ride to Paris
• Filippo Simeoni (Domina Vacanze) didn't lie down easily, attacking on the final stage and taking the combativity prize for the day
• Scott Sunderland (Alessio-Bianchi) takes his son Saën for a lap around the Champs Elysées
• Alexandre Botcharov (Crédit Agricole) hitches a ride on the team parade
• Tom Boonen and his Quick.Step teammates get a victory shower on the Champs Elysees
• A second green jersey for Australian Robbie McEwen (Lotto-Domo)
• Andreas Klöden and Jan Ullrich teammates and best friends
• Lance Armstrong (US Postal Service) gives the waiting crowd a wave after sealing his record sixth Tour victory
• George Hincapie (US Postal Service) gets a congratulatory ovation from the yellow-shirted Postal fans

Images by Roberto Bettini

• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) rode a great sprint to beat JP Nazon (R) and Danilo Hondo (L, out of shot)
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) signals his sixth Tour win
• The final podium (L to R): Andreas Kloden (2nd), Lance Armstrong (1st) and Ivan Basso (3rd)
• The jersey winners (L to R) Robbie McEwen (points), Lance Armstrong (GC), Richard Virenque (mountains) and Vladimir Karpets (young rider)
• T-Mobile was the winning team

Images by Caroline Yang/Caroline Yang Photography

• The publicity caravan begins the party on Champs Elyesee
• lance Armstrong (US Postal) in yellow again in Paris.
• The peloton circling famous Parisian landmarks.
• The top trio of Andreas Klöden (T-Mobile), Lance Armstrong (US Postal) and Ivan Basso (CSC).
• Messieurs W. Smith et J.M. LeBlanc est dans la maison?
• Jersey winners Robbie McEwen (Lotto-Domo), Lance Armstrong (US Postal), Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) and Vladimir Karpets (Illes Balears - Banesto).
• Thomas Voeckler’s journey in 2004 warmed the hearts of the French crowd.
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) missed the podium but still reigns amongst the fan.

Stage 19 - July 24: Besancon - Besancon ITT, 55 km

Images by Jon Devich/www.epicimages.us

• Robin Williams and Jean-Marie Leblanc do a Blues Brothers impression.
• Julian Dean (CA) has a look at as watch to keep track of time.
• Viatchislev Ekimov (USPS) tears out of the start gate.
• Jens Voigt (CSC) ready for the pain ahead.
• Patrice Halgand (CA) leaves the start house.
• George Hincapie (USPS) shows off the new paint job on his TT helmet.
• Floyd Landis (USPS) had a great ride today to come in fourth place.
• Jose Luis Rubiera (USPS) rolls down the start ramp.
• Levi Leipheimer (Rabobank) leaves the start house looking determined to do well.
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) eyes up the road ahead.
• Andreas Kloden (T-Mobile) heads out in search of a fast time.
• Ivan Basso (CSC) glows to the highlight of photographers flashes.
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) seems to know something good is about to happen.
• Armstrong leaves the start house to create history.
• Thomas Voeckler (Brioches) gets swarmed by media after his TT.
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) crosses the line knocking Landis out of top spot.
• Lance Armstrong (USPS)

Images by Chris Henry/Cyclingnews.com

• Stuart O'Grady (Cofidis) gives the rundown of a tough time trial
• Bobby Julich (Team CSC) was thrilled to have set the fastest time with his ride
• Aitor Gonzalez (Fassa Bortolo) had no pressure in the time trial with a stage win already under his belt
• Marius Sabaliauskas (Saeco) strikes a pose after his time trial
• Jens Voigt (Team CSC) powers across the line
• Floyd Landis (US Postal Service) stormed to a fourth place in the final time trial
• Floyd Landis (US Postal Service) is congratulated by his wife Amber, who followed him in the team car
• Vladimir Karpets (Illes Balears) took over the white jersey after crushing Thomas Voeckler in the time trial
• Sandy Casar (FDJeux.com) passed Thomas Voeckler but couldn't outpace Karpets in the white jersey competition
• Thomas Voeckler (Brioches La Boulangère) knew he might lose the white jersey, and he did
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) once more managed only second against Lance Armstrong in the time trial
• Francisco Mancebo (Illes Balears) finished well for a top ten place in the general classification

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Floyd Landis (USPS) rode brilliantly for fourth
• Laurent Brochard (Ag2r) couldn't muster anything better than 95th
• Oscar Sevilla (Phonak) was 80th at 9'25
• Axel Merckx (Lotto-Domo) powers home
• Rubiera (USPS) finished 9th in the stage
• Vladimir Karpets (Illes Balears) finished 8th and took the white jersey from Voeckler
• Richard Virenque (Quick.Step) rode well to finish 36th
• Thomas Voeckler (Brioches la Boulangere) lost a swag of time to finish 85th
• Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) was 70th today
• Christophe Moreau (CA) pushed himself to finish 18th
• Levi Leipheimer (Rabobank) finished 12th
• Pietro Caucchioli (Alessio) didn't do so well today and finished 61st
• Carlos Sastre (CSC) heads for the line
• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) couldn't overhaul Mancebo
• Francisco Mancebo (Illes Balears) did enough to keep 6th
• Jose Azevedo (USPS) comes home in 10th place
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) crossing the line for second
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) exhausted after his effort
• Andreas Kloden (T-Mobile) heading for home
• Andreas Kloden (T-Mobile) powers across the line for third
• Ivan Basso (CSC) sprints to the line
• Ivan Basso (CSC) gave it his all
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) comes across the finish line
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) after crossing the line
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) salutes from the podium
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) with his fifth stage winner's trophy
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) on the podium in yellow
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) escorted after the finish
• Lance Armstrong assumes the position
• Lance Armstrong Are we ready?
• Lance Armstrong I'll have to think about that
• Lance Armstrong answers the tough questions
• Lance Armstrong at the mike
• Lance Armstrong takes a break
• Lance Armstrong ponders
• Lance Armstrong happy with his sixth Tour
• Lance Armstrong kicks back
• Lance Armstrong is this thing on?

Images by Roberto Bettini

• Lance Armstrong (USPS) on one of the climbs on the course
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) once again gave a perfect demonstration of how to ride a TT
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) rode very well, but could only manage second behind Lance
• Ivan Basso (CSC) pushes himself to the limit

Images by Caroline Yang/Caroline Yang Photography

• Getting ready for the final Contre le Montre
• The rainy start was evocative of last years final TT.
• Jimmy Engoulvent (Cofidis) is off for the 55 km TT.
• Zanini (Quick.Step-Davitamon) at the launching pad.
• Robbie McEwen (Lotto-Domo) in the Besancon start pen.
• José Gutierrez (Illes Balears - Banesto) decending on the rolling TT course.
• Bobby Julich (CSC) bested his team leader in stage 19.
• Jens Voigt puts in another strong performance for Team CSC.
• George Hincapie (US Postal) and the Boys in Blue showed their TT prowess in stage 19.
• Michele Scarponi (Domina Vacanze) tracking his line.
• Michael Rogers (Quick.Step-Davitamon) passed Oscar Sevilla (Phonak) at the 46 km mark.
• Thomas Voeckler (Brioches la Boulangere) brought much fanfare to this year’s Maillot Blanc.
• Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) was one of the few rivals who stuck around for beatings by Armstrong.
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) wrapping up a strong Tour performance.
• Oscar Pereiro en route to a top 10 GC finish for Team Phonak.
• Rabobank leader Levi Leipheimer putting in the best stage performance for his team.
• Jose Azevedo (US Postal) finished the stage 5th in GC, just behind Ullrich.
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) fighting to get to the Paris podium.
• Andreas Klöden (T-Mobile) rode fast enough to move up to second place GC.
• Ivan Basso (CSC) headed to a top-three finish in Paris.
• Lance Armstrong (US Postal) once again demonstrates his supremacy in the final TT.
• Lance Armstrong picks up his 5th stage win of the 2004 Tour.
• The Maillot Jaune had some pointed remarks for the press in Besancon.

Stage 18 - July 23: Annemasse - Lons le Saunier, 166.5 km

Images by Jon Devich/www.epicimages.us

• Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) gets today's course profile taped onto his top tube before the start.
• The 6 man breakaway group that got away for most of the day.
• Phonak leads the peloton after the break.
• Mark Scanlon (Ag2r) rides up front in the main bunch.
• The mountains disappear in the background as the Tour closes in on Paris.
• Juan Miguel Mercado (Quick.Step-Davitamon) nips Jose Vicente Garcia Acosta at the line.
• Happiness on stage winner Juan Miguel Mercado's face.
• Photographers ready to dash to the side of the road as the main bunch comes in.
• Robbie McEwen beat out by Thor Hushovd for the bunch sprint.
• Lance Armstrong looks to the crowds as he poses in yellow.

Images by Roberto Bettini

• Lance Armstrong and Filippo Simeoni having a tête-a-tête
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) sits up and waits for the peloton
• Juan Miguel Mercado (Quick.Step-Davitamon) beats Jose Vicente Garica Acosta (Illes Balears) to win stage 18
• Thor Hushovd (R) beats McEwen (C) and Hondo (L) for 7th

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Mercado is delighted to beat Garica Acosta across the line
• Mercado celebrates his win
• Mercado is happy
• Fofonov wins the sprint for third ahead of Joly
• Lotz and Flecha finished fifth and sixth
• Holy Angles Batman! Hushovd (R) beats McEwen (C) for 7th
• The peloton rolls in 11'29 behind the winner
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) comes home
• Ivan Basso (CSC) rolls in
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) What, me worry?
• Simeoni and Ekimov come in close to each other
• Juan Miguel Mercado (Quick.Step-Davitamon) escorted to the podium
• Robbie McEwen (Lotto-Domo) grabs a drink
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) crosses the line, job done for another day
• Filippo Simeoni (Domina Vacanze) explains his side of the story
• Filippo Simeoni (Domina Vacanze) surrounded by media
• Juan Miguel Mercado (Quick.Step-Davitamon) salutes from the podium
• Juan Miguel Mercado (Quick.Step-Davitamon) salutes the crowd
• Juan Miguel Mercado (Quick.Step-Davitamon) with his winner's trophy
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) in yellow on the podium
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) prepares for another maillot jaune
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) can feel the jersey fitting more snugly with two days until Paris
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) atop the podium in yellow
• Lance Armstrong has learned a few things from Bernard Hinault
• McEwen in the green
• Robbie McEwen (Lotto-Domo) still has the green by a comfortable margin

Images by Caroline Yang/Caroline Yang Photography

• A Boulangere rider obliging the fans in the Annemasse rain.
• Mengin (FDJ) all bundled up for the wet start.
• This family is ready for the featured attraction of the day.
• Marc Lotz (Rabobank) leading the breakaway group up the Cote de Lajoux.
• The familiar sight of the Postal team keeping the peloton in check.
• Stage winner Mercado (Quick.Step-Davitamon) with an emphatic celebration.
• Ivan Basso (CSC) looking forward to the showdown with the T-Mobile stars in the final time trial.
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) helping himself to another yellow jersey.
• Lance Armstrong (USP) getting a congratulation from the Badger.

Stage 17 - July 22: Bourg d'Oisans - Le Grand Bornand, 204.5 km

Images by Jon Devich/www.epicimages.us

• Mikel Astarloza (Ag2r) tries to get away early in the day.
• USPS leads the peloton to keep up the tempo.
• Lance Armstrong corners on the way to the Col de la Madeleine.
• Riders take a corner with the Alps looming in the background.
• The peloton makes its way up a deep canyon on the way to the Col du Glandon.
• Ivan Basso and Jan Ullrich try to hang on as Floyd Landis and Lance Armstrong set the pace on the last climb.
• Jose Luis Ruberia gets a splash of water after doing his work on the climb.
• Stephane Goubert (Ag2r) looking hot and tired on the climb to the finish.
• Paolo Bettini (Quick.Step) looks a little worried on the way to the top.
• The first big bunch makes its way up the Col de la Croix Fry close to the finish.

Images by Chris Henry/Cyclingnews.com

• 'No more gifts. Lance Armstrong smiles after winning his third consecutive stage
• Santos Gonzalez (Phonak)
• Carlos Sastre (CSC) tried to attack the leaders but paid for it in the end
• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) finished 10th and conserved his top ten position in GC
• Vladimir Karpets (Illes Balears) is now less than a minute behind white jersey Thomas Voeckler
• A hard day for Michael Rogers (Quick.Step-Davitamon) who seemed content with his ride
• Chechu Rubiera (US Postal Service) ceded his job of setting the pace in the finale to Floyd Landis
• Iker Flores (Euskaltel-Euskadi) tried to salvage his team's Tour with a top finish
• Gilberto Simoni came out of his shell and went on the attack, winning the Souvenir Henri Desgrange
• Oscar Sevilla (Phonak) finished hot and tired, 37th on the day
• Aitor Osa (Illes Balears) gets some direction to the team bus
• Serguei Ivanov (T-Mobile) tried his own attack but couldn't break the US Postal grip

Images by Roberto Bettini

• The peloton through the looking glass
• Some of the spectators have been here for a while...
• Armstrong and Basso in close contact
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) in full flight on the descent
• Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) leads Virenque and Moreau in the break
• Carlos Sastre and Ivan Basso attempt an attack on the last climb
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) beats Andreas Kloden to win his fourth stage
• Thomas Voeckler (Brioches) kept the white jersey by just 45 seconds

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Floyd Landis (USPS) set a hard tempo on the Col de la Croix Fry that only four others could follow
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) was well protected by Landis today
• Ivan Basso (CSC) had enough in the tank to hang on today
• Andreas Kloden (T-Mobile) suffering to hang on
• Carlos Sastre (CSC) was away on his own for a while
• Vladimir Karpets (Illes Balears) riding on his own
• Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) follows Mercado up
• Oscar Pereiro (Phonak) comes up the Croix Fry
• Caucchioli (Alessio) looking forward to the top
• Rik Verbrugghe (Lotto-Domo) tried to attack before the last climb, but didn't gain enough time
• Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) was out there all day, but was caught on the last climb
• Simoni and Verbrugghe struggling up the last climb
• Paolo Bettini (Quick.Step) looking fresh
• Laurent Dufaux (Quick.Step) cruises up the last climb
• George Hincapie (USPS) in a following group on the Col de la Croix Fry
• The autobus makes its way up the Croix Fry
• The name says it all: The Col de la Croix Fry
• Thomas Voeckler (Brioches la Boulangere) had to fight for his white jersey
• Aldag brings up the rear of a group on the Croix Fry
• Oscar Sevilla (Phonak) finished a fair way down again
• Serguei Ivanov (T-Mobile) did a good job for the team today
• Kloden and Armstrong sprint for the line
• Armstrong celebrates his fourth stage win
• David Moncoutie (L) shakes the hand of Stephane Goubert (Ag2r) across the line
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) salutes from the podium
• That's four. How many stage trophies will Lance Armstrong take home?
• Nice fit. Lance Armstrong puts on the yellow
• Lance adds to his yellow jersey and stuffed lion collection again

Images by Caroline Yang/Caroline Yang Photography

• The Big Cheese cruising down the French Alps.
• Simoni (Saeco) led an attack for 160 km.
• Rubiera (USPS) and the Postal boys leading the peloton down Col du Glandon.
• The peloton negotiating a hairpin descent.
• Andreas Kloden's (T-Mobile) strong showing creates a slight dilemma for his team.
• Paco Mancebo (Illes Balears) leading home Caucchioli (Alessio-Bianchi) and Virenque (Quick.Step).
• Thomas Voeckler (Brioches) Verbrugghe (Lotto), and Rogers (Quick.Step) on the final 200 meter mark.
• Team Virenque (Quick.Step) on the podium.
• Erik Zabel (T-Mobile) disappearing into the crowd after stage 17.

Stage 16 - July 21: Bourg d'Oisans - Alpe d'Huez ITT, 15.5 km

Images by Jon Devich/www.epicimages.us

• Switchbacks crisscross the slopes of l'Alpe d'Huez.
• Axel Merckx (Lotto-Domo)
• Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon)
• Carlos Sastre (CSC)
• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner)
• Thomas Voeckler (Brioches)
• Julian Dean (CA)
• Didier Rous (Brioches)
• Viatchislev Ekimov (USPS)
• Niki Sorensen (CSC)
• David Etxebarria (Euskaltel)
• Pavel Padrnos (USPS)
• Christian Van deVelde (Liberty Seguros)
• Stuart O'Grady (Cofidis)
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile)
• Eric Zabel (T-Mobile)
• Rik Verbrugghe (Lotto-Domo)
• Ivan Basso (CSC)
• Ivan Basso (CSC) just before getting caught by Lance Armstrong.
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) comes through hot on Basso's wheel.
• Lance Armstrong with the end in sight.
• Lance Armstrong rides by to the cheering of his fans.

Images by Luc Claessen/www.actiefotos.be

• Thomas Voeckler (Brioches la Boulangere) struggled today in the white jersey
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) was untouchable again today
• Fabio Baldato (Alessio) battles against the mountain
• Michele Bartoli (CSC) lookin' good
• Ivan Basso (CSC) feels the pinch
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) had a decent ride today
• Laurent Brochard (Ag2r) very focused
• Laurent Dufaux (Quick.Step) considers the task ahead
• Giuseppe Guerini a former winner on L'Alpe
• Levi Leipheimer (Rabobank) concentrates
• Jan Ullrich drives hard
• Richard Virenque remains standing

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Richard Virenque didn't pick up any more mountain points
• Christophe Moreau (CA) was 20th today
• Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) was just outside the top 20
• Carlos Sastre (CSC) rode well for the top 10
• Levi Leipheimer (Rabobank) driving it home
• Levi Leipheimer (Rabobank) en route to 29th
• Pietro Caucchioli (Alessio) was 27th, but kept his 9th place on GC
• Totschnig in a world of pain
• Jose Azevedo (USPS) was fourth in the stage
• Thomas Voeckler (Brioches) fought bravely but lost 7 minutes
• Here comes Jan on the TT bars
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) at full gas
• Der Jan rounds a hairpin
• Francisco Mancebo (Illes Balears) lost a lot of time today
• Andreas Kloden (T-Mobile) had a very solid ride for third place
• Andreas Kloden (T-Mobile) in the final kilometres
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) sucks down some water
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) post-hydration
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) drives it home
• Ivan Basso (CSC) struggles at the finish
• Danish support at 2 km to go
• l'Alpe d'Huez from a spectator's point of view
• Taking the wide approach to the hairpins
• Richard Virenque hugs the inside bend
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) gave it everything to finish second
• Armstrong sprints for the line
• Armstrong crosses the line
• Lance Armstrong salutes from the podium
• I hope I don't get hayfever
• Lance Armstrong looking a lot more comfy in yellow
• Lance Armstrong atop the podium for the second time in as many days
• Lance Armstrong adds to his yellow jersey and stuffed lion collection
• Later all
• Richard Virenque is contagious

Images by Roberto Bettini

• Lance passes the 9.5 km check in the new best time
• Please remain seated. Lance Armstrong is coming through.
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) checks behind him
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) has the black and yellow look going on l'Alpe d'Huez
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) employed an aero climbing position

Images by Space Imaging

• Space Imaging's IKONOS satellite took a photo of the winding switchback road to the town of L'Alpe d'Huez lined with cars, RVs and hundreds of thousands of cycling fans.

Images by Mitch Clinton/clintonphoto.com

• Julian Dean figures he should be done by tea time
• Pavel Padrnos (USPS) his usual impassive self
• George Hincapie (USPS) starts his assault
• Levi Leipheimer (Rabobank) looking aero
• Jan Ullrich looking for time
• Richard Virenque now in spots

Images by Caroline Yang/Caroline Yang Photography

• Aitor Gonzalez (Fassa) composed as usual with 2.5 km to go.
• Michele Scarponi (Domina) on the final hairpin.
• Richard Virenque (Quick.Step) sporting a new do for the Alpe d'Huez crowd.
• George Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) with another strong stage performance.
• Thomas Voeckler (Brioches la Boulangere) realizing the hills are just as tough without the yellow jersey.
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) setting a strong a pace but could not best Armstrong.
• Andreas Kloden (T-Mobile) came in third behind teammate Ullrich.
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) showing himself again on l'Alpe d'Huez.

Stage 15 - July 20: Valreas - Villard-de-Lans, 180.5 km

Images by Jon Devich/www.epicimages.us

• Lance Armstrong's pal Robin Williams showed up at the start today.
• The first break of the day forms.
• USPS sets the tempo to keep the break in check.
• George Hincapie comes to the front to take his pull.
• The main bunch rides amongst the lavender fields.
• Riders blur on the descent towards the finish.

Images by Roberto Bettini

• Lance Armstrong (USPS) chats on the batphone
• Lance Armstrong wins the 15th stage in Villard-de-Lans
• Lance Armstrong and Ivan Basso descending
• Scott Sunderland (Alessio-Bianchi) was part of the mid-stage break
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) goes on the attack during stage 15
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) comes back to the Armstrong group
• Richard Virenque got some more pois points

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Andreas Kloden (T-Mobile) tried to lead out Ullrich for the win, but the others were too fast
• Armstrong ready to make his move
• Armstrong winds it up
• Kloden leads Ullrich, Basso and Armstrong
• Jose Azevedo (USPS) leads Virenque
• Virenque follows Rasmussen and Azevedo
• Jens Voigt (CSC) finished 9th today
• Carlos Sastre (CSC) was top 10
• Marius Sabaliauskas was Saeco's best rider
• Laurent Brochard (Ag2r) feeling the hurt
• Francisco Mancebo (Illes Balears) lost time to Armstrong, Basso and Ullrich
• Oscar Pereiro (Phonak) drives for home
• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) conceded some time today
• Pietro Caucchioli (Alessio) kept his 9th place on GC
• Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) finished well in 15th
• Marcos Serrano (Liberty) was 2 minutes down
• Christophe Moreau (CA) on his way to 14th
• Aitor Gonzalez (Fassa Bortolo) finishing off
• George Hincapie (USPS) after a hard day's work
• Floyd Landis (USPS) comes home, job done
• Sylvain Chavanel (Brioches) rides ahead of the 8'42 group
• Bartoli comes home with Julich and Merckx
• Thomas Voeckler (Brioches) looking stressed
• Aldag, Ivanov and Zabel rolling in
• Erik Zabel (T-Mobile) comes home
• Thor Hushovd (CA) had an attacking day
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) was very happy to win stage 15
• Shout it to the west
• Armstrong finishes off his salute
• Virenque crosses the line
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) slightly disappointed at the finish
• Laurent Brochard (Ag2r) after a tough day
• Pietro Caucchioli (Alessio) unstraps the battle helmet
• George Hincapie (USPS) looks for water
• Thomas Vockler comes home more than nine minutes behind
• Michele Scarponi (Domina) reflects
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) on the podium after winning
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) with his TdF stage winner's trophy
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) puts on the golden fleece
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) finally in yellow
• Richard Virenque in the spots
• Rehydration is important
• Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) tries the brute force approach to rehydration
• Fans from all nations
• Lance Armstrong on the podium

Images by Caroline Yang/Caroline Yang Photography

• Armstrong (USPS) sprints ahead of the lead pack to claim the stage.
• Armstrong (USPS) coming into the final turn.
• Leipheimer (Rabobank) with a strong fifth place finish on Villard de Lans.
• Gerolsteiner leader Totschnig is on track to finish in the top ten
• Ullrich (T-Mobile) looking for direction after stage 15.
• There's no shortage of American fans in the French Alps.
• Guerini (T-Mobile) was instrumental in setting up the Ullrich attack.
• Heras (Liberty) has been quiet this Tour.
• Armstrong (USPS) handing off his flower bouquet to a VIP.
• Sheryl Crow has been a familiar site at this year's Tour.

Images by Mitchell Clinton/www.clintonphoto.com

• The water girl was in demand today.
• Jose Azevedo (US Postal p/b Berry Floor) hooks into a corner.
• George Hincapie and Floyd Landis smoke through a corner at the bottom of the hill.
• Thomas Voeckler (Brioches La Boulangère) enjoys his last few kilometres in the maillot jaune.

Stage 14 - Sunday July 18: Carcassonne - Nimes, 192.5 km

Images by Jon Devich/www.epicimages.us

• The peloton rolls out in the early afternoon.
• The bunch rolls past the ancient walled city of Carcassonne.
• Euskaltel rider Inigo Landaluze and Liberty's Igor Gonzalez de Galdeano try to get away early in the race.
• The main bunch rides amongst the grapevines along today's vineyard lined route.
• Aitor Gonzalez gets another one for Fassa Bortolo.
• Robbie McEwen wins the bunch sprint for 11th.
• Crowd favorite Richard Virenque crosses the line.
• Bobby Julich rides in at the back.
• Thomas Voeckler holds onto yellow for another day.

Images by Chris Henry/Cyclingnews.com

• Don't let this happen to you: Jean-Patrick Nazon's fork snapped in his stage 13 crash
• The splintered core of Jean-Patrick Nazon's fork
• Yes, it's broken
• His bike bit the dust but Jean-Patrick Nazon was back to fight another day
• A tough blow for Bobby Julich who hurt his wrist in a crash in stage 13
• Thomas Voeckler gets set for an 'bonus' day in yellow
• Jakob Piil wonders how early he'll have to attack to get ahead of teammate Jens Voigt
• Tom Boonen looks less than chipper the day after his own painful crash
• Don't mess with Wauters and Dekker

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Aitor Gonzalez (Fassa Bortolo) relaxes after his win
• Pierrick Fedrigo (CA) finished fourth
• Peter Wrolich (Gerolsteiner) crosses for 5th place
• Robbie McEwen (Lotto-Domo, R) just wins the sprint for 11th ahead of Hushovd (C) and Hondo (L)
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) comes across in 39th, just ahead of Voeckler
• Thomas Voeckler (Brioches la Boulangere) rolls across the line in 40th place
• The peloton threads its way through the finish zone
• Aitor Gonzalez (Fassa Bortolo) with his TdF stage winner's trophy
• Thomas Voeckler (Brioches la Boulangere) celebrates another day I yellow
• How about that? Aitor Gonzalez celebrates a well earned stage win
• Nicolas Jalabert (Phonak) crosses the line for second place
• Aitor Gonzalez (Fassa Bortolo) happy to be back
• TiTi Voeckler on the podium in yellow for the 10th time in a row
• Aitor Gonzalez (Fassa Bortolo) is ushered to the podium
• Nicolas Jalabert (Phonak) was very popular after his second place
• Robbie McEwen (Lotto-Domo) after finishing 11th
• Ullrich and Kloden come across after the finish
• Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) actually looks happy
• Michele Scarponi (Domina) asks why?
• Pietro Caucchioli (Alessio) finishes another tough day
• Jan Hruska (Liberty) sucks on a bidon after finishing the stage

Images by Roberto Bettini

• The peloton rides through the heat during stage 14
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) during stage 14
• Lance Armstrong and Jens Voigt discuss matters on the road
• Ivan Basso (CSC) and his family: wife Micaela and baby daughter Domitilla (C)
• Aitor Gonzalez (Fassa Bortolo) celebrates his Stage 14 win
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) refuels en route to Nimes
• Erik Zabel (T-Mobile) rides ahead of a hydrating Ullrich during stage 14

Images by Caroline Yang/Caroline Yang Photography

• TiTi Voeckler (Brioches) was clearly the fans' favourite in Carcassonne.
• Gonzalez (Phonak), Flecha (Fassa), Edaleine (Cofidis) and Robin (FDJeux.com) had a one minute lead at 45 km.
• Team Rabobank organizing the chase for the four escapees.
• Stage winner Gonzalez (Fassa) looking cool after the finish line.
• Martinez (Eusktaltel) getting refreshment after a successful 92km breakaway.
• A young fan in Nimes looking for riders coming in.
• Leipheimer (Rabobank) taking a deep breath after stage 14.
• McEwen (Lotto) keeps the green jersey with a narrow lead over his rivals.
• Bernard Hinault is pleased with the accomplishment of the young Voeckler.

Stage 13 - July 17: Lannemezan - Plateau de Beille, 205.5 km

Images by Jon Devich/www.epicimages.us

• The scene on the climb to Plateau de Beille
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) comes by looking very strong.
• Lance Armstrong leads Ivan Basso (CSC) to the top.
• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) gasps for air on his way to a strong third.
• Francisco Mancebo (Illes Balears) nearly to the top.
• T-Mobile's Andreas Klöden put in a good ride for fourth place.
• Christophe Moreau (CA) stands on the pedals to get through a switchback.
• Phonak's Oscar Pereiro leads Stephane Goubert.
• Fans cheer as Thomas Voeckler rides past in the yellow jersey.
• Richard Virenque gets an escort through the thick crowds.
• Euskatel fans crowd to cheer their hometown team's riders.
• Riders make their way though the heavy crowds on today's climb.

Images by Chris Henry/Cyclingnews.com

• Andreas Klöden (T-Mobile) kept himself in contention for a podium finish after stage 13
• Pietro Caucchioli (Alessio-Bianchi) finished ninth on the stage and holds the same place in the general classification
• Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) sits just outside the top ten on GC
• Oscar Pereiro Sio (Phonak) is the team's best placed rider after Tyler Hamilton's abandon
• Thomas Voeckler (Brioches La Boulangère) was thrilled to keep his yellow jersey another day
• Axel Merckx (Lotto-Domo) has shown better climbing form in this year's Tour
• Oscar Sevilla (Phonak) crosses the line nearly seven minutes behind stage winner Armstrong
• Ivan Basso (Team CSC) was once again the only man to follow Lance Armstrong in the finale
• Levi Leipheimer (Rabobank) admitted that his chances for a top five finish may have slipped away
• 'Is this one ours?' Lance Armstrong and Sheryl Crow find their helicopter for a quick getaway
• Stage winner Lance Armstrong has taken control of the Tour de France
• Lance Armstrong gets his escort to the chopper
• The best way to get off the mountain

Images by Roberto Bettini

• Armstrong leads Basso in the final kilometres
• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) made up for yesterday with a third place
• Here comes Mancebo!
• There goes Mancebo!
• Andreas Kloden (T-Mobile) was consistent again for fourth place
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) gets a great deal of support

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) powers in the final kilometres
• Christophe Moreau (CA) recovered from an early puncture on the climb to end as 8th
• Pietro Caucchioli (Alessio) finished 9th
• Gibo Simoni (Saeco) enjoys the Basque support band
• Oscar Pereiro (Phonak) was 11th today
• Voeckler (Brioches) is urged on
• Axel Merckx (Lotto-Domo) produced a solid ride for 14th
• Vladimir Karpets (Illes Balears) wins the Tour's long hair prize
• Sylvain Chavanel (Brioches) nears the end of the stage - he ended up finishing ahead of former breakaway companions Rasmussen and Voigt
• Carlos Sastre (CSC) leads Leipheimer home
• Oscar Sevilla (Phonak) ended as 18th
• Levi Leipheimer (Rabobank) finished 19th
• David Moncoutie (Cofidis) performed well to finish in the top 20
• Sandy Casar (FDJeux.com) ended 21st for the day
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) nears the end
• It was all about being orange today
• Allez Richard increased his lead in the mountains jersey
• Floyd Landis and George Hincapie come up together, as normal
• The 1 km to go banner is welcomed by the riders
• Aitor Osa (Illes Balears) has been a bit anonymous this year
• Roberto Heras (Liberty Seguros) really didn't have a good day
• Michael Boogerd (Rabobank) was 22 minutes down at the finish
• All orange all the time
• Laurent Brochard (Ag2r) lost 8 minutes on the climb
• Michele Scarponi (Domina) with Jose Luis Rubiera
• The autobus comes home
• Dark clouds hover but the rain held off
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) raises his arms in triumph
• Ivan Basso (CSC) settled for second today
• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) crosses for 3rd
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) crosses for 6th
• Pietro Caucchioli (Alessio) was 9th today
• Christophe Moreau (CA) finishes in 8th
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) rear on
• Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) looks tired
• Thomas Voeckler (Brioches la Boulangere) crosses the line in 13th, ecstatic that he still has yellow
• Thomas Voeckler (Brioches la Boulangere) delighted that he has kept the yellow for a few more days
• Axel Merckx (Lotto-Domo) post-stage
• Scarponi (Domina Vacanze) was 30th across the line
• Thank you fans
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) was too good today
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) smiles from the podium
• Thomas Voeckler (Brioches la Boulangere) is very very happy
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) on the podium

Images by Roberto Bettini

• Lance Armstrong (USPS) beats Ivan Basso to win on Plateau de Beille
• Halgand nears the summit of Plateau de Beille
• Michele Scarponi (Domina) comes through the tunnel of fans
• Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) is riding better, although not quite at his best
• Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) is still Mr. Popular in France

Images by Caroline Yang/Caroline Yang Photography

• The publicity caravan delighting the fans in the Pyrenees.
• The Armstrong (USPS) and Basso (CSC) duo took flight again with Armstrong taking the stage win this time.
• Ullrich (T-Mobile) desperately trying to catch Armstrong on the final climb.
• Voeckler (Brioches) fought valiantly to keep the yellow jersey for another day.
• Chavanel (Brioches) feeling the gravity of the Hors Category finish.
• Sevilla (Phonak) finished the stage without a team leader.
• Scarponi (Domina Vacanze) had the best finish of the day for his team at 9'39".
• Martinez and Flores (Euskaltel) in fashionable Basque orange.
• Boogerd (Rabobank) came in at 22'14" behind the stage winner.
• Nardello (T-Mobile) wraps up another tough day for Team T-Mobile.
• Mayo (Euskaltel) eventually finished the stage after considering dropping out.
• Nazon (Ag2r) crossed the line over 40 minutes after the Armstrong & Basso duo.

Stage 12 - July 16: Castelsarrasin - La Mongie, 197.5 km

Images by Jon Devich/www.epicimages.us

• Big storm clouds awaited the peloton on the Col d'Aspin.
• Stage winner Ivan Basso (CSC) looks over to check out his breakaway companion.
• Lance Armstrong (USPS-Berry Floor) shook up the GC today with his second place finish.
• Lance Armstrong one day closer to the yellow jersey.
• Third placed rider Andreas Klöden (T-Mobile) on his way up.
• Fifth placed Carlos Sastre (CSC).
• Iban Mayo (Euskaltel) makes his way to the top to the delight of an Euskaltel fan.
• New US Olympic team member Levi Leipheimer (Rabobank)
• Bobby Julich shadows Jan Ullrich to finish 2:29 behind the leaders.
• Fans cheer as Tyler Hamilton's group goes past.
• Tyler Hamilton (Phonak) shows the pain of today’s difficult stage.
• A tired Thomas Voeckler (Brioches) will be in yellow for another day.
• Euskaltel fans cheer on David Etxebarria.
• A group of riders makes its way up the long climb.
• The last group makes its way to the top.

Images by Chris Henry/Cyclingnews.com

• Francisco Mancebo (Illes Balears-Banesto) finished fourth on the stage and sits in seventh overall
• A decent day out for Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) who finished 1'32 down on Basso and Armstrong
• Christophe Moreau (Crédit Agricole) attacked on the first climb and finished the day in 14th
• Roberto Heras (Liberty Seguros) helped rip the field apart the last time the Tour came to La Mongie but today managed only 29th best
• Oscar Pereiro (Phonak) had a better day than his team leader Tyler Hamilton
• Tyler Hamilton (Phonak) just didn't have the legs on the Tour's first major mountain
• Team CSC riders Piil (l), Julich and Bartoli compose themselves after a successful day ending in victory for Ivan Basso

Images by Roberto Bettini

• Ullrich and Armstrong stuck close to each other in the rain
• Jose Azevedo (USPS) did a great job for Armstrong today
• Basso leads Armstrong in the final kilometres
• Ivan Basso (CSC) celebrates a huge win over Armstrong at La Mongie
• Riding through sunflowers early on in stage 12
• Robbie McEwen (Lotto-Domo) finishes the stage with a stoppie

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• The fans lined the road in their thousands today
• Basso and Armstrong side by side
• Basso and Armstrong come into the final stretch
• Andreas Kloden (T-Mobile) had an excellent ride to finish third at 20 seconds
• Francisco Mancebo (Illes Balears) kept his chances alive with a 4th place
• Carlos Sastre (CSC) made a good attack, but faded at the end to finish 5th
• Oscar Pereiro was Phonak's best rider in 7th
• Denis Menchov (Illes Balears) was a minute behind
• Michele Scarponi (Domina) en route to eighth
• Iban Mayo (Euskaltel) finished top 10
• Santos Gonzalez was 10th today
• Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) was 12th in the stage
• Aitor Gonzalez (Fassa Bortolo) did well to finish 13th
• Moreau, Karpets and Caucchioli heading up the last rise
• Christophe Moreau (CA) had a fairly solid ride
• Vladimir Karpets (Illes Balears) coming up the final ramp
• Levi Leipheimer (Rabobank) suffers
• Pietro Caucchioli (Alessio) finishes in 17th
• Guerini leads Ullrich's group, which had Bobby Julich (CSC) in it
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) comes up to the finish
• Oscar Sevilla (Phonak) didn't have a fantastic day at the office
• Laurent Brochard (Ag2r) keepin' it real
• José Enrique Gutierrez (Phonak) heads for the line
• Roberto Heras (Liberty Seguros) suffers his way to the top
• Santi Perez (Phonak) leads Hamilton's group home
• Tyler Hamilton (Phonak) didn't have a good day
• Thomas Voeckler (Brioches la Boulangere) fought hard an lost 4 minutes
• Fans cheer the riders as they go past
• Thomas Voeckler (Brioches la Boulangere) gives it everything to hang on to yellow
• Sylvain Chavanel (Brioches) was 23 seconds behind teammate Voeckler at the end
• Floyd Landis and George Hincapie rode a bit easier in the finale
• Dufaux and Bettini in a small group
• Scott Sunderland (Alessio-Bianchi) leads a group home 18 minutes down
• Here comes the bus
• The autobus wasn't in a hurry
• Robbie McEwen (Lotto-Domo) heads for home
• Ivan Basso (CSC) wins the stage ahead of Lance Armstrong (USPS)
• Ivan Basso (CSC) escorted to the podium
• Ivan Basso (CSC) enjoys the stage
• Ivan Basso (CSC) on the podium
• Carlos Sastre (CSC) gets an escort
• Michele Scarponi (Domina) went deep today
• Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) looks for the bus
• Christophe Moreau (CA) after the line
• Levi Leipheimer (Rabobank) had a solid ride
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) has had better days
• Oscar Sevilla (Phonak) was pretty knackered
• Roberto Heras (Liberty Seguros) after the finish
• Tyler Hamilton (Phonak) ushered through the maze
• Ivan Basso (CSC) stands on the podium
• Ivan Basso (CSC) give the thumbs up!

Images by Caroline Yang/Caroline Yang Photography

• A gendarme keeps watch over the zealous crowd on the Tourmalet mountainside.
• A gendarme preparing for the foul weather blowing in.
• A Tour souvenir umbrella was brisk during the hailing thunderstorm on La Mongie.
• Many fans were caught unprepared for the cold and wet weather.
• The weather cleared up in time for Armstrong (USPS) and Basso's (CSC) entry into La Mongie.
• Basso (CSC) took the stage win, but Lance (USPS) devastated his rivals.
• Kloeden (T-Mobile) came in 3rd place at 0'20.
• Mancebo (Illes Balears) leads Sastre (CSC) for a 4-5 finish.
• A respectable finish for Simoni (Saeco) in 12th.
• Christophe Moreau (CA) rocking his way up the second Cat. 1 climb.
• Ullrich (T-Mobile) suffered a 2'30 setback to Armstrong.
• Ullrich (T-Mobile) digging deep to minimize damage.
• Heras (Liberty Seguros) in the last 300m of La Mongie.
• Perez (Phonak) checks on teammate Hamilton as they approach the finish.
• Hamilton (Phonak) dropped 3'27 to Armstrong.
• Voeckler's (Brioches) days in the yellow are numbered.
• Hincapie (USPS) ushered to the team bus.
• Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) well in control of the KOM competition.

Stage 11 - Thursday July 15: St Flour - Figeac, 164 km

Images by Jon Devich/www.epicimages.us

• Eric Zabel(T-Mobile) on his way to sign in on stage 11.
• The scraped up legs of Kurt-Asle Arvesen await another day of riding.
• Richard Virenque's reward today for winning yesterday in Saint-Flour was an animal of bovine origin.
• Brioches La Boulangere riders spent another day protecting the Maillot Jaune.
• Richard Virenque back in the mountains jersey again.
• Riders descend to the town of Maurs.
• Water time for Gerolsteiner.
• Today's stage winner David Moncoutie.
• Chase group riders Egoi Martinez (Euskaltel) and Juan Antonio Flecha (Fassa) get some TV time.
• USPS leads the peloton through the last 5km.
• George Hincapie, Benjamin Noval Gonzalez and Viatcheslav Ekimov work on the front.
• CSC's Kurt-Asle Arvesen leads in one of the last groups.

Images by Chris Henry/Cyclingnews.com

• Egoi Martinez (Euskaltel-Euskadi) didn't have the answer to David Moncoutié's attack
• Juan Antonio Flecha (Fassa Bortolo) didn't win the stage but was content with his effort
• Fabian Wegmann (Gerolsteiner) who showed excellent climbing form in the Giro d'Italia, tried to go on the attack in stage 11
• Another solid day for T-Mobile leader Jan Ullrich
• Michele Bartoli (Team CSC) grabs a drink after the first hot stage in the Tour
• Tyler Hamilton (Phonak) rode with the spirit of his beloved dog Tugboat

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• David Moncoutie (Cofidis) started to celebrate early
• David Moncoutie (Cofidis) can't believe it
• Juan Antonio Flecha (Fassa Bortolo) won the sprint for second ahead of Martinez
• Egoi Martinez (Euskaltel) content with third
• Thor Hushovd (CA) beats Zabel for fourth
• Lance Armstrong (USPS) sprinted well to finish 9th
• Armstrong finished in ninth place
• Scott Sunderland (Alessio-Bianchi) finished well in 12th place
• Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) rolls across the line after spending an easier day in the saddle today
• Gilberto Simoni (Saeco) was a bit off the pace in 49th spot
• Roberto Heras (Liberty Seguros) finished 61st and lost 17 seconds to his main GC rivals
• Michael Boogerd (Rabobank) was 98th today
• Pippo Pozzato (Fassa Bortolo) after the finish
• Moncoutie escorted to the podium
• David Moncoutie (Cofidis) on the podium
• David Moncoutie (Cofidis) enjoys the moment
• David Moncoutie (Cofidis) avec trophy
• Thomas Voeckler (Brioches la Boulangere) had no problems today in yellow
• Robbie McEwen (Lotto-Domo) enjoying the green jersey
• Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) on the podium in the maillot pois

Images by Roberto Bettini

• Richard Virenque (Quick.Step-Davitamon) rides in the peloton during stage 11
• Robbie McEwen (Lotto-Domo) suffered, but rallied to finish 6th
• David Moncoutie (Cofidis) leads Egoi Martinez (Euskaltel, R) and Juan Antonio Flecha (Fassa Bortolo, L) in the winning break
• David Moncoutie (Cofidis) celebrates a big win in Figeac

Images by Caroline Yang/Caroline Yang Photography

• The breakaway group of Moncoutie (Cofidis), Martinez (Euskaltel) and Flecha (Fassa Bortolo) clearing the Cote de Bagnac.
• Moncoutie (Cofidis) eventually takes the stage win over Martinez (Euskaltel) and Flecha (Fassa Bortolo).
• With 16 km to go the peloton was not overly concerned with the escapees.
• Postal rider José Azevedo and teammates keeping watch over the peloton.
• Edaleine (Cofidis), Casper (Cofidis) and Martin (RAGT) setting the pace for the broom wagon