92nd Tour de France - GT

France, July 2-24, 2005

Photography

June 30: Lance Armstrong's pre-Tour press conference
June 30: Medical and team training
July 1: Armstrong challenges the wind
July 1: Team presentation
Stage 1 - Saturday, July 2: Fromentine - Noirmoutier-en-l'Ile ITT, 19 km
Stage 2 - Sunday, July 3: Challans - Les Essarts, 181.5 km
Stage 3 - Monday, July 4: La Châtaigneraie - Tours, 212.5 km
Stage 4 - Tuesday, July 5: Tours - Blois TTT, 67.5 km
Stage 5 - Wednesday, July 6: Chambord - Montargis, 183 km
Stage 6 - Thursday, July 7: Troyes - Nancy, 199 km
Stage 7 - Friday, July 8: Lunéville - Karlsruhe, 228.5 km
Stage 8 - Saturday, July 9: Pforzheim - Gérardmer, 231.5 km
Stage 9 - Sunday, July 10: Gérardmer - Mulhouse, 171 km
Rest Day 1 - Monday, July 11: Grenoble
Stage 10 - Tuesday, July 12: Brignoud - Courchevel, 181 km
Stage 11 - Wednesday, July 13: Courchevel - Briançon, 173 km
Stage 12 - Thursday, July 14: Briançon - Digne-les-Bains, 187 km
Stage 13 - Friday, July 15: Miramas - Montpellier, 173.5 km
Stage 14 - Saturday, July 16: Agde - Ax-3 Domaines, 220.5 km
Stage 15 - Sunday, July 17: Lézat-sur-Lèze - Saint-Lary Soulan (Pla d'Adet), 205.5 km
Stage 16 - Tuesday, July 19: Mourenx - Pau, 180.5 km
Stage 17 - Wednesday, July 20: Pau - Revel, 239.5 km
Stage 18 - Thursday, July 21: Albi - Mende, 189 km
Stage 19 - Friday, July 22: Issoire - Le Puy-en-Velay, 153.5 km
Stage 20 - Saturday, July 23: Saint-Etienne - Saint-Etienne ITT, 55 km
Stage 21 - Sunday, July 24: Corbeil-Essonnes - Paris Champs-Élysées, 144 km

Stage 21 - Sunday, July 24: Corbeil-Essonnes - Paris Champs-Élysées, 144 km

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Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Lining up for the start
• A damp peloton early on
• The most impressive sight in bicycle racing
• Woah! Vansevenant, Commesso, and Da Cruz hit the deck
• The peloton thunders along the Champs Elysees
• There they go
• Davitamon-Lotto leads the peloton
• After it dried up the pace quickened
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) wins the final stage as Brad McGee missed it by that much
• Celebration for Vino, disappointment for McGee
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) wins the final stage
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) enjoying the moment
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) won the final stage
• Thor Hushovd (Credit Agricole) ended as Best Sprinter
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) finished with the polka-dot jersey of Best Mountain Climber
• Yaroslav Popovych (Discovery) was the Best Young Rider
• Oscar Pereiro (Phonak) was the Tour's most aggressive rider
• T-Mobile was the best team in the 2005 Tour de France
• The jersey winners on the podium: Popovych, Hushovd, Armstrong, and Rasmussen
• The jersey winners on the podium: Popovych, Hushovd, Armstrong, and Rasmussen
• Lance Armstrong smiles atop the podium for the final time
• Thanks Jan
• To Jan: this might be your step next year
• The final podium: Ivan Basso (CSC, 2nd), Lance Armstrong (Discovery, 1st), and Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile, 3rd)
• Basso, Lance, and Jan
• Basso, Lance, and Jan on the podium
• Lance Armstrong celebrates number 7
• The final podium on the Champs Elysees is always impressive
• Lance Armstrong Tour de France champion
• The end of an era for Lance and the kids
• Lance Armstrong with some of his most important trophies
• Lance Armstrong with his seventh Sevres bowl
• Lance Armstrong exits the podium, with son Luke
• Lance Armstrong finished with a magic seven Tour de France victories
• The end of the day on the Champs Elysees

Images by Tim Maloney/Cyclingnews.com

• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) had a good Tour, but just lost out on his fifth GC place at the end

Images by AFP Photo

• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) enjoying himself in the final stage
• Clearly this is Paris
• The peloton rides towards the Arc de Triomphe in the wet
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) goes past the Arc de Triomphe
• Carlos Da Cruz hits the deck with Wim Vansevenant and Salvatore Commesso. Either that or they are engaged in a bit of break dancing on the Champs Elysees.
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) wins the final stage
• The jersey winners: Yaroslav Popovych (best young rider), Thor Hushovd (points), Lance Armstrong (overall GC), and Michael Rasmussen (mountains). And Armstrong's kids.

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) the toast of the town
• Truly, this is a champagne moment for Lance Armstrong
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) beats Brad McGee and Fabian Cancellara to win the final stage

Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• Lance Armstrong (Discovery) comes in to Paris.
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) looking for a stage win.
• Lance Armstrong leads the bunch.
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) held onto the polka-dot jersey.
• A break tries to get up the road.
• The bunch comes in.
• Things heat up at the front.
• Another group tries to get away.
• Chris Horner (Saunier Duval-Prodir) tried hard to get away.
• Alexander Vinokourov (T-Mobile) wins on the Camps E'Lysees.
• Alexander Vinokourov (T-Mobile) very excited with his win.
• Discovery lines up for the obligatory team photo during the parade.

Images by Luc Claessen/www.actiefotos.be

• You're not supposed to do this but what's the Tour organisation going to do to Lance Armstrong for giving an interview during the race - disqualify him?
• Matthias Kessler (T-Mobile) grabs a bottle from the team car
• The devil. Not retiring.
• Thor Hushovd (Credit Agricole) in the green jersey of points leader, which he held on to in Paris.
• Ivan Basso (CSC) rides in the bunch on the Champs Elysees
• Lance Armstrong and Discovery round a corner with the Arc de Triomphe in the background
• Lance's fans
• Lance Armstrong and team-mates look happy that it's almost all over.
• Lance Armstrong can taste the winner's champagne now
• Lance Armstrong and team with one-off team jerseys incorporating yellow sleeves for Armstrong's win.
• Lance Armstrong on his last-ever yellow jersey laps of the Champs Elysees
• Davitamon-Lotto moves to the front to chase down an escape.
• Bram Tankink (Quick.Step) leads Chris Horner (Saunier Duval) in their escape attempt of the Champs Elysees
• Yaroslav Popovych (Discovery) wears the white jersey of best young rider on the lap of honour.
• Discovery does a lap of honour.
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) basks in his stage win podium moment. And why not!
• Yaroslav Popovych (Discovery) salutes the crowd as he accepts the award for best young rider.
• Ivan Basso (CSC) and daughter with Lance Armstrong and Jan Ullrich on the podium
• Podium daddies
• Just kidding! Lance Armstrong announces he's not going to retire after all. (Don't email us, we are making it up)
• The final top three Ivan Basso (CSC, 2nd), Lance Armstrong (Discovery, 1st) and Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile, 3rd)
• Lance Armstrong waves from the podium
• Lance Armstrong waves from the podium
• The jersey winners - best young rider Yaroslav Popovych (Discovery), points winner Thor Hushovd (Credit Agricole), overall winner Lance Armstrong (Discovery) with his children and king of the mountains Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank)
• Au revoir!

Images by Elmar Krings

• The Ag2R boys were extremely happy to make it to the finish after a testing Tour
• Illes Balears were missing Valverde after his early exit, but glad it was over
• Stage 6 winner Lorenzo Bernucci and Fabian Cancellara enjoy their time in the sun which luckily came out at some point during the day
• One of these Credit Agricole guys has a special green jersey...can you tell which one?
• Cofidis took a stage win from this year's Tour
• CSC had a great Tour and look set to get even better in 2006
• Riis, Sastre, Voigt and Zabriskie enjoy the finish on the Champs Elysees
• Domina Vacanze had a quiet Tour but found out Petacchi will be there in 2006
• Euskaltel had a quiet Tour after some big expectations before the race
• Time to take out the slippers and relax after a very fast Tour
• Fassa missed Petacchi but still picked up a stage win
• FD Jeux were a tad disappointing but they'll be back and ready next year
• Gerolsteiner enjoyed a strong Tour and enjoy their time cruising the boulevard in Paris
• Who's a happy boy in his green jersey
• Once more, with feeling... Lance waves goodbye to pro cycling
• Play it again, Uncle Sam. Armstrong and the Disco boys carry the stars and stripes in Paris for the last time together
• Lance and the lieutenant carry the pride of the USA along the Champs Elysees
• A reforming Tour for the Liberty Seguros boys
• They should be a force in 2006 after a couple of Tours coming back into the fold
• Liquigas enjoyed mixed fortunes during this year's Tour
• A great race from a great team and it should get even better in 2006
• Paco Mancebo finished fourth and can be extremely satisfied with his performance
• The Lotto Aussies, McEwen and Evans showed everyone what they're capable of in 2005, with Robbie just falling short of another green jersey
• Phonak relax after getting two riders in the top ten overall
• Phonak United... it could be a football team, hey?
• Missing Boonen... the Quickstep team may have had a green jersey if Boonen had been there
• Rabobank are satisfied with their efforts, taking polka dots and two stage wins
• Saunier Duval improved greatly and can relax in Paris
• Juan Manuel Garate and the Saunier Duval squad take it easy
• The top team on the team classification
• Vino was super-strong and relaxes with the magenta gang
• Oppy made it through! With Lesley O'Grady at the helm

Stage 20 - Saturday, July 23: Saint-Etienne - Saint-Etienne ITT, 55 km

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Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• Eddy Merckx signs an autograph while son Axel warms up in the background.
• Hmm, why did I wear these glasses?
• Alexander Vinokourov (T-Mobile) in the start gate.
• Cadel Evans (Davitamon-Lotto) looks a little concerned at the start.
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery) gets going.
• Michael Rogers (Quickstep) sporting the World Champion stripes.
• Axel Merckx (Davitamon-Lotto) leaves the ramp.
• Bobby Julich (CSC) takes off.
• Alexander Vinokourov (T-Mobile) leaving the start house.
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner)
• Chris Horner (Prodir-Saunier Duval) going onto the course.
• Stefano Garzelli (Bianchi-Liquigas) has an interesting helmet.
• Mickael Rasmussen (Rabobank) looking a little worse for the wear after his TT.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) comes across the line in 6th place.
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) gave it his all coming in.
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery) wins his last time trial.
• Senator John Kerry signs an autograph
• Senator John Kerry gives an interview

Images by Tim Maloney/Cyclingnews.com

• Senator John Kerry with Floyd Landis' coach Alan Lim at the start

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) grabs one more drink
• Sheryl Crow watches with Isabella, Grace, and Luke
• A few nerves before his last TT
• Lance ready to do it one more time
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) leaves the start ramp for the last time
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) in charge
• Ullrich in the zone
• Ivan Basso (CSC) prepares
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) sets off
• Ivan Basso (CSC) powers up
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) rides to victory
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) in the mode
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) was in good form today, but not good enough to beat Lance
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) powering along
• Ivan Basso (CSC)
• Ivan Basso (CSC) started well
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) before it went pear shaped
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) drives it home
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) liking the feel of yellow
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) rode very well for second
• Ivan Basso (CSC) finishes fifth
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) finishes one of the worst days on the bike of his career
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) post-stage
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) salutes from the podium, as stage winner
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) with his stuff
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) greets Sheryl and Luke David

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) on track for the win and number 7
• Ivan Basso (CSC) rode solidly to keep his second place on GC

Images by Luc Claessen/www.actiefotos.be

• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) was unbeatable today
• Ivan Basso (CSC) storming along
• Cadel Evans (Davitamon-Lotto) rode well, but not quite well enough to keep seventh
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) managed to move into fifth place, but only just
• George Hincapie (Discovery) finished top 10 again
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) just wants it to end
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) assumes the position
• Paco Mancebo (Illes Baleares) had a great ride for 9th
• Oscar Pereiro (Phonak) defended his top 10 place on GC
• Christophe Moreau (CA) trying to put time into Pereiro
• Yaroslav Popovych (Discovery Channel) increased his lead in the white jersey comp
• Carlos Sastre (CSC) had a good ride today
• Jorg Jaksche (Liberty Seguros) on the climb
• Giuseppe Guerini (T-Mobile) was 24th today
• Michael Rogers (Quick.Step) finished just inside the top 30
• Axel Merckx (Davitamon-Lotto) finished 37th today
• Mario Aerts (Davitamon-Lotto) keeps it smooth
• Phillippe Gilbert (FDJ) in suffer mode
• Thor Hushovd (CA) didn't have to go too hard today
• Kurt-Asle Arvesen (CSC) going well
• It wasn't easy out there
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) salutes as stage winner
• Lance on the podium
• John Kerry US senator and cyclist
• Luke David Armstrong

Images by AFP Photo

• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) with Senator John Kerry
• Lance lines up for his last Tour TT
• Luke Roberts (CSC) set the early best time
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) gave it everything, but fell short by 23 seconds
• A lean looking Jan Ullrich at full gas
• Bobby Julich (CSC) had a very solid ride for 4th
• Stuart O'Grady (Cofidis) rode within his limits
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) powers along in the final TT
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) was again The Boss today
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) comes up to the line
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) finishes his ride, the best
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) puts on the maillot jaune one more time
• Lance gives the spoils of victory to his kids

Live

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Images by Anthony Tan/Cyclingnews.com

• Not much to do except pretend to call someone.
• Whitey gives his Dad directions on where to go.
• CSC bikes ready for warm-up duty.
• Davitamon-Lotto's Fred Rodriguez and Robbie McEwen get in their final warm-up.
• It could very well be a 'no chains Lance' day today.
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) gets ready to scout the parcours behind one of the early starters.
• Nicolas Jalabert (Phonak) in the start house.
• Michael Rich (Gerolsteiner) receives the OK from the UCI commissaire... we think.
• Michael Rich (Gerolsteiner) gets ready to ride up to the start house.
• Riders' number plates ready to slapped onto the team cars.
• Fabian Cancellara (Fassa Bortolo) receives some last-minute advice.
• There's a familiar face - it's Eddy Merckx!
• And another one Australia's Patrick Jonker.

Stage 19 - Friday, July 22: Issoire - Le Puy-en-Velay, 153.5 km

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Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) leads the bunch on a descent to the valley below.
• The bunch rides through the scenic region of the Massif Central.
• Two Liberty Seguros-Wurth riders try to catch back on to the group as a Gendarme watches.

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Giuseppe Guerini (T-Mobile) celebrates his win in Le Puy-en-Velay
• Giuseppe Guerini (T-Mobile) on the line
• Giuseppe Guerini (T-Mobile) gets it comfortably
• Giuseppe Guerini (T-Mobile) after the finish
• Giuseppe Guerini (T-Mobile) post-stage
• A happy T-Mobile camp with Beppe Guerini
• Sandy Casar (FDJ) beats Pellizotti for second
• Franco Pellizotti (Liquigas) after finishing third
• Sandy Casar (FDJ) crushed by the media
• We love Lance!
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) arrives
• The peloton arrives
• Salvatore Commesso (Lampre) exhausted post-stage
• Giuseppe Guerini (T-Mobile) with the day's earnings
• Giuseppe Guerini (T-Mobile) on the podium
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) puts on the maillot jaune
• This is how the yellow jersey zips up
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) enjoying podium life
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) from a different angle

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Ivan Basso (CSC) at the sign on
• Ivan Basso (CSC) nearly finished
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) rides during stage 19
• The Tour passing through the dry farm country in central France
• Franco Pellizotti (Liquigas) with Guerini on his wheel
• Franco Pellizotti (Liquigas) enjoyed another day out in front
• Salvatore Commesso (Lampre) trying but failing to bridge to the leaders
• Jose Luis Rubiera (Discovery Channel) tows the team up the Col des Pradeaux
• Savoldelli and Popovych lead Armstrong on the Cat. 2 Col des Pradeaux
• Giuseppe Guerini (T-Mobile) with Sandy Casar on his wheel
• Giuseppe Guerini (T-Mobile) wins the 19th stage
• Giuseppe Guerini (T-Mobile) can't believe it
• A victorious Guerini post-stage
• Giuseppe Guerini (T-Mobile) grins from the podium
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) for the third last time

Images by AFP Photo

• Der Jan waits
• Jan and his teddy bear
• The peloton rolls out for the start
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) enjoying himself a lot
• Stefano Garzelli (Liquigas) drives the pace early on
• Roberto Heras (Liberty Seguros) on the attack in stage 19
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) in the thick of it
• Sandy Casar (FDJ) leading Giuseppe Guerini (T-Mobile)
• Oscar Pereiro (Phonak) leads the break, while Guerini and Casar refuel
• Giuseppe Guerini (T-Mobile) is ecstatic
• Giuseppe Guerini (T-Mobile) celebrates in Le Puy-en-Velay

Stage 18 - Thursday, July 21: Albi - Mende, 189 km

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Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Marcos Serrano (Liberty Seguros) on the Côte de la Croix Neuve
• Marcos Serrano (Liberty Seguros) nears the summit
• Axel Merckx (Davitamon-Lotto) driving it behind Serrano
• Axel Merckx (Davitamon-Lotto) with Vasseur in tow
• Franco Pellizotti (Liquigas) drives through the crowd
• Franco Pellizotti (Liquigas) suffering
• The fans love Voeckler
• Thomas Voeckler (Bouygues) came up short today
• Here comes Basso!
• Ivan Basso (CSC) powering
• Cadel Evans (Davitamon-Lotto) with Ullrich in tow
• Der Jan
• Leipheimer with Rasmussen and Vinokourov
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) concentrates on the road in front
• Paco Mancebo struggled a bit
• Leonardo Piepoli (Saunier Duval) on the Côte de la Croix Neuve
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) with Mazzoleni on his wheel
• Eddy Mazzoleni (Lampre) riding hard
• Moreau and Totschnig on the last climb
• Yaroslav Popovych (Discovery Channel) suffers up the last climb
• Stefano Garzelli (Liquigas) was a bit off the pace
• Marcos Serrano (Liberty Seguros) across the line
• Marcos Serrano (Liberty Seguros) celebrates
• Marcos Serrano (Liberty Seguros) blows a kiss
• Serrano weaves his way through the photographers
• Cedric Vasseur (Cofidis) leads Merckx in for 2nd
• Cedric Vasseur (Cofidis) leads Merckx in for 2nd
• Axel Merckx (Davitamon-Lotto) after the line
• Franco Pellizotti (Liquigas) beats Xabier Zandio for fifth
• Franco Pellizotti (Liquigas) finished fifth
• Cadel Evans (Davitamon-Lotto) leads the Armstrong group in
• The Armstrong group after crossing the line
• The Armstrong group post-stage
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) leads the Rasmussen group in
• Marcos Serrano (Liberty Seguros) is happy
• Marcos Serrano (Liberty Seguros) on the podium
• Marcos Serrano (Liberty Seguros) salutes from the podium
• Marcos Serrano (Liberty Seguros) grins on the podium
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) starting to enjoy podium life
• Lance and Sheryl

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• It's easy to spot the US supporters
• The rather imposing cathedral in Albi
• How low can you go?
• The gendarmerie getting the most out of their machines
• Descending
• Rasmussen and Boogerd keep in touch
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) had a quieter day today
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) follows Savoldelli
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) on a climb
• Armstrong and Basso never far from each other
• Ivan Basso (CSC) in action
• Matthias Kessler (T-Mobile) gets down
• Marcos Serrano (Liberty Seguros) had plenty of time to celebrate
• This one's for you
• Armstrong across the line
• Marcos Serrano (Liberty Seguros) very happy on the podium

Images by AFP Photo

• A tete-a-tete between Armstrong and Botero
• Bridges
• Julich and Armstrong staying close
• Vinokourov attacks with Vansummeren, Moreau, and Garzelli
• The peloton in the shimmering heat
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) follows his teammates
• The break in the French countryside
• Marcos Serrano (Liberty Seguros) rides away from Merckx and Vasseur
• Marcos Serrano (Liberty Seguros) wins the 18th stage in Mende
• Marcos Serrano (Liberty Seguros) is delighted with his victory

Images by Luc Claessen/www.actiefotos.be

• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) gets ready to sign on
• Phillippe Gilbert (FDJ) ready to attack
• Yeah
• Bridges were a feature of Stage 18
• The Merckx group heads towards the last climb
• The peloton rollin', rollin', rollin'…
• Xabier Zandio (Illes Balears) hurting. A lot.
• Luke Roberts (CSC) ahead of Matthias Kessler on the Côte de la Croix Neuve
• Matthias Kessler (T-Mobile) wonders what time it is
• Ivan Basso (CSC) leads Armstrong up the last climb
• Rasmussen and Leipheimer in a world of pain
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) muscles his way up the Côte de la Croix Neuve
• Leonardo Piepoli (Saunier Duval) gets up the climb
• Carlos Da Cruz (FDJ) paid for his earlier efforts
• George Hincapie (Discovery) wasn't able to hold the Armstrong group today
• Beppe Guerini (T-Mobile) on the the Côte de la Croix Neuve
• Vladimir Karpets (Illes Baleares)
• Ouch
• Patrik Sinkewitz (Quick.Step) reaches for his bidon
• David Arroyo (Illes Balears) off the pace a little
• Christophe Brandt (Davitamon-Lotto) gets to the top the only way he can
• Michael Boogerd (Rabobank) realises that there is no easy way up
• Nicki Sorensen (CSC) rides up at his own pace
• The gruppetto comes up the Côte de la Croix Neuve

Stage 17 - Wednesday, July 20: Pau - Revel, 239.5 km

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Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) on the line, beating Arvesen
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) celebrates
• Yaroslav Popovych (Discovery Channel) leads the Armstrong group in
• Yaroslav Popovych (Discovery Channel) leads the Armstrong group in
• Popo and Vino lead the Armstrong group in for 18th and 19th
• The sprint for 28th was taken by Stuart O'Grady
• Stuart O'Grady (Cofidis) leads Hushovd in for 28th
• Simon Gerrans (Ag2r) recovers from his effort
• Simon Gerrans (Ag2r) went deep
• Bernard Hinault listens to Savoldelli's tale
• Sheryl Crow with main squeeze Lance
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) smiles from the podium
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) salutes from the podium
• Thank you says Savoldelli
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) stage winner
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) as always, in the maillot jaune
• Yaroslav Popovych (Discovery Channel) looking better in white

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Andreas Kloden (T-Mobile) retires from the race with a broken wrist
• If it's the Tour it's gotta be sunflowers
• The Tour in the afternoon sun
• The breakaway riding through sunflowers
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) loves going downhill
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) riding hard
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) wins the 17th stage
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) celebrates his win in Revel
• Winner Paolo Savoldelli and the vanquished Kurt-Asle Arvesen
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) stands on the winner's podium
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) four days away from Tour number 7 and retirement

Images by AFP Photo

• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) ready to do some damage
• Andreas Kloden (T-Mobile) started, but didn't finish
• Lance and Ivan the top two
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) rides near the front of the peloton
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) is getting happier as Paris approaches
• The breakaway rides along during stage 17
• The peloton during stage 17
• The peloton
• Discovery Channel and CSC lead the pack
• Kurt-Asle Arvesen (CSC) on the front
• Bram Tankink (Quick.Step) on the front with Samuel Dumoulin (Ag2r)
• Sebastien Hinault (CA) was won of the strong men in the break
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) attacks on the last climb with Sebastien Hinault (CA)
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) descends after attacking with Sebastien Hinault on the final climb
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) comes past Kurt-Asle Arvesen (CSC) in the final 50 metres to take the stage win
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) beats Kurt-Asle Arvesen (CSC) to win in Revel
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) celebrates his last gasp win in Stage 17

Images by Luc Claessen/www.actiefotos.be

• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) riding to the start
• Plenty of Lance fans along the way
• Lance Armstrong fans appreciating his final Tour
• The sign says it all
• Cadel Evans (Davitamon-Lotto) at the start
• Stuart O'Grady (Cofidis) wondering what the day will bring
• Noval and Padrnos lead the peloton
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) on a long day
• Jorg Jaksche (Liberty Seguros) in cruise mode
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) shows the signs of a long day in front
• Bram Tankink (Quick.Step) at full gas
• Allan Davis (Liberty Seguros) was part of the early break
• Georg and George
• Rasmussen and Basso powering along
• Cadel Evans (Davitamon-Lotto) chasing very hard
• Chris Horner (Saunier Duval) leads a very tired McEwen
• Carlos Sastre (CSC) in a bit of pain
• Giuseppe Guerini (T-Mobile) chasing hard
• Mick Rogers (Quick.Step) also off the pace
• Fred Rodriguez (Davitamon-Lotto) on his own
• Tobias Steinhauser (T-Mobile) leads a group on the last climb

Stage 16 - Tuesday, July 19: Mourenx - Pau, 180.5 km

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Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• Riders have to be good at multitasking at the Tour.
• The main bunch rolls through the countryside.
• Juan Antonio Flecha (Fassa Bortolo) was one of the first to attack today.
• Discovery picks up the tempo at the front.
• A Cofidis rider gets a talking to.
• Angel Vicioso (Liberty Seguro-Wurth) rides along with a teammate.
• The publicity caravan cruises past one of the special police on the course today because of a protest.
• Do NOT step onto the road!
• Oscar Pereiro Sio (Phonak) on the way to his big win today.
• Cadel Evans (Davitoman-Lotto) chases hard.
• One of the tunnels on the descent the switchbacks continue in the distance.
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery) looking smooth on the decent from the Col d'Aubisque.
• Bobby Julich (CSC) leads a group.
• Alberto Contador (Liberty Seguros-Wurth) speeds through a switchback.
• Some of the scenery on the back side of the Aubisque, the road cuts across the middle of the mountain.
• Stuart O'Grady (Cofidis) checks his back.
• Freddy Rodriguez (Davitoman-Lotto) comin atchya
• The bunch makes its way in to Pau.

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) with Popovych and Basso close behind
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) riding during stage 16
• Watch those tunnels
• Discovery Channel keeping control
• The Discovery riders check the route profile
• Going up!
• Basso and Arvesen trailed by Rasmussen
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) with Ivan Basso close behind
• The main group on the Aubisque
• Armstrong and Hincapie lead, as Ullrich looks for an opportunity to attack
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) leads his captain Lance Armstrong on the Aubisque
• Ivan Basso (CSC) with Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile)
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) knows how to attack, and that's what he did today
• Armstrong concentrates on a descent
• The GC favourites keep an eye on each other
• Eddy Mazzoleni (Lampre) riding on the front of the break
• Oscar Pereiro (Phonak) on a descent
• Oscar Pereiro (Phonak) wins the stage ahead of Xabier Zandio (Illes Balears)
• Oscar Pereiro (Phonak) is delighted with his stage win in Pau
• Yes! Oscar Pereiro wins the stage
• Oscar Pereiro (Phonak) smiles from the podium

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Lance and Rasmussen near the start
• Armstrong and Basso riding hard together
• Flashing by in the Pyrenees
• Anyone got washing?
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) controlling the tempo on the Aubisque
• Eddy Mazzoleni (Lampre) nears the top of the Aubisque
• The yellow jersey group on the descent of the Aubisque
• The descent of the Col d'Aubisque
• Mazzoleni descends with Pereiro and Evans in tow
• Oscar Pereiro (Phonak) during the stage
• The leaders pass through a tunnel

Images by AFP Photo

• Thor Hushovd (CA) the jolly green giant
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) interviewed pre-stage
• Santiago Botero (Phonak) phones home
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) enjoying himself
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) refueling during the race
• Oscar Pereiro (Phonak) driving the four man break
• Oscar Pereiro (Phonak) celebrates as he beats Xabier Zandio to win stage 16 of the Tour
• Oscar Pereiro (Phonak) very happy with his win

Images by Luc Claessen/www.actiefotos.be

• Oscar Pereiro (Phonak) at the start
• Thor Hushovd (CA) pensive at the start
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) upbeat at the start
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) riding to the start
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) checks out the route profile
• Cadel Evans (Davitamon-Lotto) drives it to the summit of the Aubisque
• Xabier Zandio (Illes Balears) guts it out on the Aubisque
• Chris Horner (Saunier Duval) in suffer mode
• Armstrong leads his group, with an aggressive Ullrich on his wheel
• Yaroslav Popovych (Discovery Channel) climbs the Aubisque alone
• Azevedo with Boogerd and Piepoli
• Stuart O'Grady (Cofidis) climbing the Aubisque
• Mick Rogers (Quick.Step) and Johan Van Summeren on the Aubisque
• Nicolas Jalabert (Phonak) coming up the climb
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) getting the job done
• Thomas Voeckler (Bouygues) wonders where the summit is

Images by Mitch Clinton/www.clintonphoto.com

• Cadel Evans (Davitamon-Lotto) solo after the Aubisque
• Marcos Serrano (Liberty) gasping for air.
• George Hincapie and Armstrong on the Soulor
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel)
• Christophe Moreau (Credit Agricole)

Stage 15 - Sunday, July 17: Lézat-sur-Lèze - Saint-Lary Soulan (Pla d'Adet), 205.5 km

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Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• A yellow Live Strong bracelet hangs from the top of Fabio Casartelli's memorial.
• The front side of the Casartelli memorial features a sundial which hilights special moments in Fabio Casartelli's life from start to end.
• A view of the whole memorial.
• Fabio Casartelli's mother, wife and son look to the sky while remembering Fabio.
• The break rolls through the countryside.
• Erik Dekker (Rabobank) leads the bunch on the Col de Mente.
• An Euskaltel rider woooshes by.
• Another group making its way up.
• Peter Wrolich (Gerolsteiner) works on his climbing.
• Magnus Backstedt (Bianchi-Liquigas) had some troubles on the road today.
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) wins his first ever Tour stage
• Michael Boogerd (Rabobank) grits his teeth to get across the finish line.
• Ivan Basso (CSC) leads in Lance Armstrong at the finish.
• Oscar Sevilla (T-mobile) leads in Jan Ullrich.
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) makes it in.
• Mickael Rasmussen (Rabobank) comes in at 6'32 back after a long hard day.
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) struggles in at 7'33 back, slipping to 8th in GC.
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) up close
• George Hincapie (Discovery) salutes from the podium.

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• George Hincapie and Oscar Pereiro fight it out for the victory
• Hincapie and Pereiro nearly there
• Oscar Pereiro (Phonak) leading Hincapie
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) driving for home
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) salutes on Pla d'Adet
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) wins the stage
• Oscar Pereiro (Phonak) was second
• Pietro Caucchioli (CA) near the end
• Pietro Caucchioli (CA) comes home for third
• Michael Boogerd (Rabobank) aims dead ahead
• Michael Boogerd (Rabobank) in a lot of pain
• Laurent Brochard (Bouygues Telecom) wants it to end
• La Broche finishes his ride
• Ivan Basso (CSC) was determined to consolidate his second place
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) did what he had to today
• Basso and Armstrong with 350 to go
• Ivan Basso (CSC) with Armstrong on his wheel
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) finishes, no problems today
• Sevilla and Ullrich coming home
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) had to go deep again today
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) finishes
• Oscar Sevilla (T-mobile) leads home a blown Jan Ullrich
• Mancebo and Rasmussen battle for time
• Rasmussen leads Mancebo across
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) rode a great final climb
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) fighting his way to the top
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) has a lot of power back there
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) suffered a lot
• Christophe Moreau (Credit Agricole lost a bit more time today
• Haimar Zubeldia (Euskaltel) leads Evans home
• Eddy Mazzoleni (Lampre) on the way in
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) comes home, somewhat off the pace
• Yaroslav Popovych (Discovery Channel) defended his white jersey today
• Giro winner Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel)
• A disappointed Jan Ullrich after the finish
• Any left?
• Smilin' George
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) on the podium
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) can feel Paris now
• Raymond Poulidour congratulates Lance on another yellow

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Armstrong and Ullrich
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) freshens up
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) very concentrated
• Armstrong and Basso up and at 'em
• Basso and Armstrong come up the final climb
• That was nice says George Hincapie
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) with Fabio Casartelli's son
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) on the podium

Images by Luc Claessen/www.actiefotos.be

• Chris Horner (Saunier Duval) upbeat at the start
• Fans of Lance
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) in the sunflowers
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) framed by sunflowers
• The peloton through sunflowers
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) taking it steady
• Oscar Sevilla (T-mobile) on a descent
• Laurent Brochard (Bouygues Telecom) on a descent
• Allan Davis (Liberty Seguros) plays follow the leaders
• Mikel Astarloza (Ag2r)
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) gives it full gas
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) loves that molten tar
• Yaroslav Popovych (Discovery Channel) on his way down
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) descends serenely
• Walter Beneteau (Bouygues)
• Pierrick Fedrigo (Bouygues Telecom) worried
• Giuseppe Guerini (T-Mobile) watchful
• Thomas Voeckler (Bouygues) scared, after puncturing on a descent
• Axel Merckx (Davitamon-Lotto) relaxed
• Johan Vansummeren (Davitamon-Lotto)
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) keeps his cool

Images by AFP Photo

• Christophe Moreau (Credit Agricole leads the peloton early on
• Discovery Channel sets the early tempo
• Armstrong and Basso in discussion
• Some cows take no interest in the proceedings
• A portrait in yellow
• How to get run over in the Tour de France
• That can't be good for you
• Oscar Pereiro (Phonak) sprays water over himself on a hot climb
• A determined Ivan Basso, with Armstrong on his wheel
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) approaches the line
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) wins on Pla d'Adet

Stage 14 - Saturday, July 16: Agde - Ax-3 Domaines, 220.5 km

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Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• A view of the climb from the Cyclingnews blimp.
• Phil Liggett keeps his eyes on the race at the finish.
• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) wins on Ax 3 Domaines.
• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) can't believe he won.
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) comes through 1'16 back.
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) gave it all he had to get to the finish.
• Stefano Garzelli (Liquigas-Bianchi) finishes after a long hard day.

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) on his way to the win
• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) drives it to the summit of the last climb
• Armstrong and Basso distancing Ullrich
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) with Ivan Basso
• Ivan Basso (CSC) focuses on the wheel in front
• Armstrong and Basso sailing home
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) didn't leave anything behind today
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) limiting the damage
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) hurting a lot
• Leipheimer and Landis follow each other
• Mancebo and Rasmussen together
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) going all out
• Andreas Kloden (T-Mobile) at the top of the last climb
• Haimar Zubeldia (Euskaltel) was good but not brilliant
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) fights his way to the top
• Stefano Garzelli (Liquigas) struggles home
• Jorg Jaksche (Liberty) with Evans on his wheel
• Yaroslav Popovych (Discovery Channel) en route to finishing 16th
• Eddy Mazzoleni (Lampre) leads Piepoli and Julich
• A large group on the last climb
• A gruppetto comes home
• A bus comes home
• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) wins the stage
• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) celebrates his win
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) leads Basso home
• That wasn't easy says Ullrich
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) and Floyd Landis (Phonak) come home
• Mancebo and Rasmussen come across the line
• Michael Boogerd (Rabobank) enjoys some water
• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) celebrates on the podium
• An emotional Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) on the podium
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) puts on the maillot jaune
• One step closer to Paris for Lance
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) didn't lose any points in the mountains GC
• Yaroslav Popovych (Discovery Channel) best young rider
• Sheryl Crow wonders what to do with all these stuffed lions

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Mmm…sausages… just the thing on a stinking hot day
• The breakaway riding in the Pyrenees
• Armstrong had plenty of support along the road today
• The maillot jaune comes up the Port de Pailheres
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) leads the yellow jersey group on the Port de Pailheres
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) leading Basso, Ullrich, and Kashechkin on the Pailheres
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) in defensive mode today
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) maintains poise
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) did not have it easy
• Armstrong signals for the team car
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) eating on a descent
• Ivan Basso (CSC) takes a drink
• The remains of the break: Garzelli leads Totschnig and Beneteau
• Andriy Grivko (Domina Vacanze) chases the leaders
• Crazy fans in the Pyrenees
• Ivan Basso (CSC) leads Armstrong
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) shadowed by Ullrich
• The big guns: Basso, Ullrich, Armstrong, and Landis
• Garzelli is caught by the Armstrong trio
• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) wins on Ax 3 Domaines.

Images by AFP Photo

• It's a nice day for a race in the Pyrenees
• Stefano Garzelli (Liquigas) helped initiate the early break
• Juan Manual Garate (Saunier Duval) driving the breakaway
• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) on the front of the break
• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) fights his way to the top
• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) is very happy with his victory on Ax-3-Domaines
• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) can't believe it!

Images by Luc Claessen/www.actiefotos.be

• Juan Manual Garate (Saunier Duval) leading the break
• Armstrong's Discovery team controlling the pace early on in the stage
• It's back breaking work up front
• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) crests the climb of Ax-3-Domaines
• Armstrong and Basso at the top of the last climb
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) full gas near the summit
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) pre-stage
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) powers to the finish
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) comes to the finish
• Stefano Garzelli in pain
• Yaroslav Popovych (Discovery Channel) was good enough to hold onto his white jersey today
• Walter Beneteau (Bouygues) suffering
• Juan Manual Garate (Saunier Duval) didn't survive from the early break
• Andriy Grivko (Domina Vacanze) hurting
• Kashechkin leads home Moreau
• Philippe Gilbert (FDJ) was in the early break
• Axel Merckx (Davitamon-Lotto)
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) coming up to the finish
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) didn't find it easy today
• Flecha and Cioni lead a gruppetto home
• A gruppetto comes into view

Stage 13 - Friday, July 15: Miramas - Montpellier, 173.5 km

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Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) through the crowd
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) with bodyguards Erwin and Serge
• Yesterday's winner David Moncoutie
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) with Alejando Valverde
• Ivan Basso (CSC) smiling as always
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) going dotty
• Valverde and Rassmussen shake hands at the start
• Basso rides to the start
• Stefano Garzelli (Liquigas) ready for another day
• Robbie McEwen enjoys a pre-race snack
• Jolly green giant
• Valverde and Basso check each other's tyres
• Valverde and Basso
• Alejandro Valverde (Illes Balears) checks the bike
• Alejandro Valverde (Illes Balears) wasn't sure about his chances
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) obliging the fans
• Roberto Heras (Liberty Seguros) signing autographs
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) lines up
• Lining up for the start of Stage 13
• McEwen celebrates a long way out
• Thank you team
• The lunge… O'Grady (L, 2nd), McEwen (C, 1st), Rodriguez (R, 3rd)
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) celebrates his win in Montpellier
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) wins one for the team
• Thumbs up for Davitamon-Lotto
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) salutes from the podium
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) was really happy with his third victory
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) puts on another maillot jaune
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) is the man to beat
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) now faces two tough stages in the Pyrenees
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) is the clear leader in the mountains competition

Images by AFP Photo

• Saunier Duval was aggressive during the early part of the stage
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) shows how to stretch on the bike
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) wipes his brow during stage 13
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) followed by CSC riders
• Alejandro Valverde (Illes Balears) rides during stage 13, with knee bandaged
• The peloton rides along during stage 13
• Thomas Voeckler (Bouygues Telecom) driving the breakaway
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) wins the 13th stage in Montpellier, while second placed Stuart O'Grady is a little annoyed at McEwen's wobble in the last 25m
• McEwen and Rodriguez celebrate their 1st and 3rd places

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Lance Armstrong the man of the moment, as always
• Lance Armstrong has a certain magnetism
• The peloton passing through wine country
• To cover the Tour you have to do it properly
• Alejandro Valverde (Illes Balears) abandons at the feed zone
• Juan Antonio Flecha (Fassa Bortolo) making his presence felt in the break
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) wins the 13th stage in Montpellier, while second placed Stuart O'Grady is a little annoyed at McEwen's wobble in the last 25m
• McEwen wins the stage, while Hushovd (R) finished 5th
• You done good lads
• Thank you says McEwen
• Hushovd gets ready for his time on the podium
• Don't ask me I just work here
• She's back!

Images by Luc Claessen/www.actiefotos.be

• Belgian rider Christophe Brandt (Davitamon-Lotto) greets his family at the start
• The peloton passes a roundabout right after the start
• Scenery at Uzes
• The five leaders passing trough Uzes, 95 km from the finish
• The peloton passing through Uzes
• The peloton passing through Uzes
• The peloton passing through Uzes
• Armstrong always surrounded by teammates
• Chris Horner (Saunier Duval) chasing the Chavanel with 10k to go
• Thomas Voeckler (Bouygues Telecom) going in to the last 10km
• George Hincapie (Discovery) leads his teammates to the last 10 km
• Going home Robbie?
• Lance Armstrong greets one of the local people on the podium

Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) wins his third Tour stage

Stage 12 - Thursday, July 14: Briançon - Digne-les-Bains, 187 km

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Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• The peloton heads for the first KOM of the day.
• A bunch rides past the picturesque Lac Lu Lac.
• David Moncoutié (Cofidis) rounds the last corner on the way to the line.
• Sandy Casar (Francaise Des Jeux) leads the second bunch to the line.
• Angel Vicioso (Liberty Seguro-Wurth) comes through with Axel Merckx (Davitamon-Lotto) on his wheel.
• Freddie Rodriguez (Daitamon-Lotto) brings in another group.

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• David Moncoutie (Cofidis) celebrates across the line
• David Moncoutie (Cofidis) wins the stage
• Sandy Casar (FDJ) wins the sprint for second
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) wins the sprint for 14th
• Lance finishes the 12th stage
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) comes across the line with Basso and Rasmussen
• Franco Pellizotti (Liquigas) in a bit of pain post-stage
• David Moncoutie (Cofidis) is a happy Frenchman today
• David Moncoutie (Cofidis) salutes from the podium
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) maintained the yellow comfortably today
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) in yellow on Quatorze Juillet
• Thor Hushovd (CA) was awarded the green jersey at the end of the stage
• Thor Hushovd (CA) in green
• Richard Virenque points to the new King of the Mountains, Michael Rasmussen
• Alejandro Valverde (Illes Balears) is the man in white

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• The peloton heads down towards Lac de Serre-Poncon
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) descends during stage 12
• Maillot jaune Lance Armstrong descends during stage 12
• The Discovery boys with an interloper
• Robbie McEwen prepares for the sprint
• Armstrong and Hincapie riding together
• Franco Pellizotti (Liquigas) rides beside David Moncoutie (Cofidis)
• David Moncoutie (Cofidis) on his own on a descent
• David Moncoutie (Cofidis) celebrates his victory
• The old and the new king: Richard Virenque (L) with Michael Rasmussen

Images by AFP Photo

• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) in the car with Quick.Step manager Patrick Lefevere after not starting this morning
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) stretches at the start
• Brad McGee (Francaise des Jeux) goes on the attack
• The chase is on!
• The peloton rides under clear blue skies during stage 12 of the Tour de France
• Alejandro Valverde (Illes Balears) getting seen to by the race doctor
• David Moncoutie (Cofidis) leads the break on the French national holiday, Quatorze Juillet
• David Moncoutie (Cofidis) going all out
• David Moncoutie (Cofidis) celebrates his win on Quatorze Juillet
• Sandy Casar (FDJ) wins the sprint for second

Stage 11 - Wednesday, July 13: Courchevel - Briançon, 173 km

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Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• I'm not sure if he had a tail wind coming up or was trying to slow down on the decent. Notice the helmet.
• Alexander Vinokourov (T-Mobile) comes through on the way to his win.
• Santiago Botero (Phonak) riding hard to catch back on to Vinokourov.
• The Discovery team leads the chase group.
• Discovery leads the way on the Galibier.
• A group climbs the Galibier.
• Jagged mountains create a dramatic backdrop for today's stage.
• The bunch creates a band of colour against the grassy slopes of the Galibier.
• The last bunch descends down into Briançon.

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• A steep part of the climb
• The Col du Galibier is a serious climb
• The Galibier was lined with fans
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) on his own on the mountain
• Santi Botero (Phonak) chasing Vino
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) is encouraged
• Azevedo in front of the Discovery train
• Armstrong and Savoldelli on the Galibier
• Valverde and Landis keep an eye on things
• Ullrich, Evans, and Mazzoleni follow the Disco train
• Mancebo riding hard
• Piepoli and Leipheimer bringing up the rear
• Andreas Klöden in damage control mode
• Chris Horner (Saunier) in suffer mode
• Stefano Garzelli (Liquigas) in all sorts of pain
• Roberto Heras tanked again today
• Iban Mayo (Euskaltel) suffering, suffering...
• A group nears the top of the Galibier
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) wins the stage
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) celebrates
• Santi Botero (Phonak) didn't have much left
• Lance Armstrong across the line
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) after finishing sixth
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) salutes
• Vinokourov on the podium
• Maillot jaune Lance Armstrong
• Lance Armstrong still the one

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• An appropriately dressed man watches the Tour on the Col de la Madeleine
• The Armstrong group nears the top of the Madeleine
• Botero leads Vinokourov and Pereiro on a descent
• The mighty Col du Galibier
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) is chased by a German fan during his climb of the Galibier
• Lance Armstrong in yellow on the Galibier
• Armstrong and Popovych on the Galibier
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) safely in dots
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) leads Armstrong on the Galibier
• Stefano Garzelli (Liquigas) struggling on the Galibier
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) wins the stage ahead of Santiago Botero (Phonak)
• Ivan Basso (CSC) finds a way through
• Eddy Mazzoleni (Lampre-Caffita) post-stage
• Miss Tour de France 2005

Images by Luc Claessen/www.actiefotos.be

• Vinokourov leads near the top of the Galibier
• Christophe Moreau gets ready to go for fourth on the Galibier
• Savoldelli leads the Armstrong group to the top
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) follows Paco Mancebo on the Galibier
• Landis and Valverde come to the top of the Galibier
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) gets his dinner
• Andreas Klöden (T-Mobile)
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) just off the back of Lance and co. on the Galibier
• Andrey Kashechkin (Credit Agricole) rode a splendid race, ending 16th
• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) with Rogers on his wheel, chasing the Armstrong group
• Chris Horner (Saunier Duval) fighting hard
• Chris Horner (Saunier Duval) near the top of the climb
• Chechu Rubiera (Discovery) puts on a jacket at the top
• Michael Boogerd (Rabobank) ended 36th today, at 27 minutes from the winner
• Robbie McEwen descends with the Boonen group
• Quickstep's Bram Tankink on the descent of the Galibier
• Lotto Davitamon's Wim Vansevenant descending
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) looking sharp on the descent of the Galibier
• There were many Boonen supporters
• The descent of the Col du Galibier

Stage 10 - Tuesday, July 12: Brignoud - Courchevel, 181 km

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Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• Stuart O'Grady (Cofidis) all smiles at the start in Grenoble.
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery) leads the group to the top of Courchevel.
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery) leads Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank).
• Ivan Basso (CSC) having a hard time on the climb.
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) had a great day finishing in 6th place.
• Cadel Evans (Davitomon-Lotto) coming through with Floyd Landis (Phonak) on his wheel.
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) didn't have too great of a day today.
• Stefano Garzelli (Liquigas-Bianchi) fights to get to the top.
• Roberto Heras (Liberty Seguros-Wurth Team) leads a group a few minutes back from the leaders.
• Another bunch makes its way up with 1.5km to go.
• The laughing group almost finished for the day.

Images by Luc Claessen/www.actiefotos.be

• Jens Voigt going for the start
• Michael Rasmussen heads for the start
• Tom Boonen still looking pretty in green
• Robbie signing autographs
• There was a demonstration blocking the road in the early race
• Alexandre Vinokourov makes some fans happy
• This white jersey looks dangerous
• Lunch time for McEwen
• Armstrong looks very concentrated in the last 500m
• The five leaders in the last km on Courchevel
• Jorg Jaksche takes one of the last corners of the day
• Floyd Landis gives it all to the finish
• Christophe Moreau was on his best on Courchevel
• Vinokourov chasing with Bobby Julich
• Oscar Sevilla was a potential tour winner in his best days
• Dario Frigo looks 'over the top'
• The yellow jersey suffering hard on Courchevel
• Armstrong giving interviews after the finish

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) with Michael Rasmussen in tow
• Who are you looking at?
• Stefano Garzelli (Liquigas) fights to stay in touch
• Eddy Mazzoleni (Lampre-Caffita) with Leonardo Piepoli (Saunier Duval) in tow
• Armstrong and Valverde come up to the line
• Alejandro Valverde (Illes Balears) wins in Courchevel

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) leading the front group
• Rasmussen gets ready for an attack
• Armstrong follows Rasmussen
• The lead group rounds one of the top corners
• Ivan Basso (CSC) has to suffer
• Ivan Basso (CSC) en route to fifth
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) going well
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) works those pedals
• Jorg Jaksche was Liberty's best rider
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) on the front of Evans' group
• Cadel Evans (Davitamon-Lotto) fighting hard
• Leonardo Piepoli (Saunier Duval)
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) was again forced to concede time today
• Ullrich and Kloden bearing down on riders ahead
• Santiago Botero (Phonak) wonders when it'll end
• Christophe Moreau (CA) in damage control mode
• Stefano Garzelli (Liquigas) gives it his all
• Yaro Popovych (Discovery Channel) with Horner in tow
• Chris Horner (Saunier Duval) clearly not enjoying it
• Michael Rogers (Quick.Step) hurting
• Carlos Sastre (CSC) does it tough
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) nears the top with Julich on his wheel
• Vino and Julich face the mountain
• Joseba Beloki (Liberty Seguros) with Mikel Astarloza (Ag2r) on his wheel
• O'Grady on the back of the bus
• Alejandro Valverde (Illes Balears) wins the stage
• Alejandro Valverde (Illes Balears) celebrates his win in Courchevel
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) congratulates Valverde on his win
• Armstrong and Valverde shake hands
• Rasmussen leads Mancebo home for third
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) was third
• Ivan Basso (CSC) crosses for fifth
• Ivan Basso (CSC) that hurt
• Eddy Mazzoleni (Lampre-Caffita) wins the sprint for 7th
• Cadel Evans (Davitamon-Lotto) rode well for 8th
• Andreas Kloden (T-Mobile) leads his teammate Jan Ullrich home
• Andreas Kloden (T-Mobile) after the finish
• Stefano Garzelli (Liquigas) finishes
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) crosses with Bobby Julich (CSC)
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) really struggled today
• Joseba Beloki (Liberty Seguros) not so good
• Santiago Botero (Phonak) crosses the line
• Botero felt that one
• Ouch as Moreau crosses the line
• Fabian Wegmann (Ger) recovers with eau claire
• The steep run to the finish at Courchevel
• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) suffering
• Oscar Sevilla (T-Mobile) on one of the final bends
• Oscar Pereiro (Phonak) on his own at the finish
• The riders in the autobus near the top
• The bus comes up to the finish
• Alejandro Valverde (Illes Balears) was the man on top today
• Alejandro Valverde (Illes Balears) salutes as the stage winner
• Lance is one step closer to a seventh Tour win
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) is pleased to get yellow back
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) likes the feel of this one
• Lance Armstrong back in yellow
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) extended his lead in the mountains competition…by a lot
• Alejandro Valverde (Illes Balears) is now the man in white

Rest Day 1 - Monday, July 11: Grenoble

For a thumbnail gallery of these images, click here

Images by Luc Claessen/www.actiefotos.be

• Jens Voigt so where's the yellow?
• Bjarne Riis (CSC manager) gets kitted up with Kurt-Asle Arvesen
• Bjarne Riis (CSC manager) ready for action
• A rare frown from Ivan Basso (CSC)
• Bobby Julich (CSC) and daughter
• Johan Bruyneel with the tools of the trade
• George Hincapie arrives
• George Hincapie plays with daughter Julia Paris
• George Hincapie with daughter Julia Paris and wife Melanie
• Sheryl Crow looking for Lance
• Sheryl Crow enjoyed a run on the rest day
• Sheryl Crow back from her jog
• Lance arrives looking for Sheryl

Stage 9 - Sunday, July 10: Gérardmer - Mulhouse, 171 km

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Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• The peloton decends on its way from Gerardmer.
• David Zabriskie (CSC) not looking too happy to be on the bike today.
• David Zabriskie (CSC) had enough.
• Mickael Rasmussen (Rabobank) gets cheered on by fans.
• Mickael Rasmussen (Rabobank) on the way to his win.
• Dario Cioni (Liquigas-Bianchi) couldn't quite hold on to Rasmussen.
• Cristophe Moreau (Credit Agricole) leads Jens Voigt (CSC).
• Remnants of the main break make their way up the last climb.
• Jose Luis Rubiera (Discovery) leads the yellow jersey group.
• Robbie McEwen (Davitomon-Lotto) not doing his favorite thing.
• Nicki Sorensen (CSC) on the Le Ballon d'Alsace.
• Mathew White (Cofidis) and Robert Förster (Gerolsteiner) lead a group towards the finish.

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) loves his dog, and his wife
• Odessa and Levi!
• Bjarne Riis (CSC manager) has a cunning plan today
• Yesterday's winner Pieter Weening (Rabobank)
• Ivan Basso (CSC) with some race fuel
• Ullrich checks the bike
• Jan checks the bike
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) is greeted by a posse of autograph hunters
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) recruiting more teammates
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) with his mentor, Rudy Pevenage
• Rudy Pevenage with Andreas Kloden (T-Mobile)
• You gotta be quick to be Lance's bodyguard
• Here's Lance
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) rides to sign on
• Well that went OK. Lance after signing on
• Lance and the kids
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) rides to the start
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) ready for battle
• JP Nazon (Ag2r) and son
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) at sign on
• Iban Mayo (Euskaltel) smiles for the camera
• Stefano Garzelli (Liquigas) concentrated
• Santiago Botero (Phonak) at the start
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) ready for a big day
• Pietro Caucchioli (CA) after signing on
• Pierrick Fedrigo (Bouygues Telecom) signs autographs
• Joseba Beloki (Liberty Seguros) is enjoying himself
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) signs autographs
• Vladimir Karpets (Illes Balears) with the best young rider jersey on
• Ivan Basso (CSC) comes to the start
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) and the local kids
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) making the ladies happy
• Pierrick Fedrigo (Bouygues Telecom) at the start
• The Boss after signing on
• The peloton lines up in Gerardmer
• Stage 8 winner Pieter Weening (Rabobank) on the line
• Pieter Weening (Rabobank) got a red number for being the most aggressive rider yesterday
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) crosses the line to win
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) wins the stage
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) celebrates his win in Mulhouse
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) is congratulated by a soigneur after the stage
• Christophe Moreau (CA) leads Voigt home for second
• Jens Voigt (CSC) knows he's got the yellow
• Jens Voigt (CSC) post-stage
• O'Grady wins the sprint for fourth
• Armstrong and Ullrich cross together
• Armstrong post-stage
• Didier Rous (Bouygues) had a nasty crash towards the end of the stage
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) smiles from the podium
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) salutes from the podium
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) is happy, and in pain
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) built a solid lead in the polka dots competition
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) has got to be happy now
• I'm the new maillot jaune!
• Jens Voigt (CSC) salutes from the podium
• Jens Voigt (CSC) smiles in the maillot jaune
• A happy maillot jaune Jens Voigt (CSC)

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• It may not show here but Lance had a better time of it today
• Lance Armstrong follows his Discovery Channel teammates on the Ballon d'Alsace
• Le Ballon d'Alsace was packed
• Ullrich on the Ballon d'Alsace
• Dario Cioni (Liquigas) alone after being dropped by Rasmussen
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) en route to victory
• Jens Voigt (CSC) puts on the yellow jersey in Mulhouse

Images by Luc Claessen/www.actiefotos.be

• Hennie Kuiper with Bernard Hinault
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) at the start
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) looking lean
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) makes some kids happy
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) looking better
• Johan Vansummeren (Davitamon-Lotto) makes this fan very happy
• Virenque interviews Durand at the barber
• The cows really get into the Tour
• Igor Gonzalez de Galdeano (Liberty Seguros) had to abandon after a painful crash
• David Zabriskie (CSC) gets into the car
• David Zabriskie (CSC) abandoned after 11 km
• The peloton after five km
• Jean-Marie Leblanc lays flowers on Le Ballon d'Alsace
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) on his own on the Ballon d'Alsace
• Christophe Moreau (CA) riding well again
• Angel Vicioso (Liberty Seguros) struggles on the Ballon d'Alsace
• Alexandre Moos (Phonak) on the Ballon d'Alsace
• Inigo Landaluze (Euskaltel) on the Ballon d'Alsace
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) with Savoldelli in tow
• Oscar Sevilla (T-Mobile) with Guerini behind
• Georg Totschnig (Gerolsteiner) on the Ballon d'Alsace
• Laurent Brochard (Bouygues Telecom) working
• Voeckler and Fedrigo suffering on the Ballon d'Alsace
• Daniele Nardello (T-Mobile) chasing hard
• Sylvain Chavanel (Cofidis) on the Ballon d'Alsace
• Nicki Sorensen (CSC) paying for his efforts yesterday
• Ouch for this Phonak rider
• A Gerolsteiner rider on the Ballon d'Alsace
• Marc Wauters (Rabobank) catches up on the news
• Erik Dekker (Rabobank) off the pace a little
• Are we there yet?
• McEwen and Boonen brothers in arms

Stage 8 - Saturday, July 9: Pforzheim - Gérardmer, 231.5 km

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Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• Big crowds at the start in Pforzheim, Germany.
• Known for its gold Pforzheim presented the Tour with a golden start line.
• The peloton makes its way through the German town of Kippenheim.
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) on the way to his win.
• George Hincapie (Discovery) leads the chase after the first climb.
• Another of the little German villages along the route before heading into France.
• Peter Wrolich Gerolsteiner's sprinting ace, works to catch back on.
• A median strip splits the bunch.
• Erik Dekker (Rabobank) keeps things in check.
• Fans watch the race on a small TV on the Col de la Schlucht.
• Now that the flat stages are behind us, the Tour heads into the hills.
• Fans packed the final climb today and created some major traffic problems.

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• This is what the crowd saw
• Weening and Kloden throw for the line
• Not much in it

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• So who got it?
• Alejandro Valverde (Illes Balears) won the sprint for third
• Ullrich rolls in for a top 10
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) showed signs of form today
• Christophe Moreau (CA) had a good day today
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) comes across the line
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) after the finish
• Dario Frigo (Fassa Bortolo) finished in the front group
• Laurent Brochard (Bouygues Telecom) finishes
• A group makes its way through the crowd at the finish
• Boonen and McEwen come in together
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) after a tough day
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) has doubts
• Fabian Wegmann (Gerolsteiner) paid for his effort yesterday
• Pieter Weening (Rabobank) enjoying his time on the podium
• Pieter Weening (Rabobank) salutes from the podium
• Pieter Weening (Rabobank) is a happy chappy
• Lance puts on the jersey
• Still number 1 Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel)
• It may have been a tough day, but I've still got the stuffed Lion
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) survived in yellow
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) still the man
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) now in dots
• Smile! It doesn't look that bad on you
• Vladimir Karpets (Illes Balears) is the new best young rider
• Vladimir Karpets (Illes Balears) looks good in white

Images by Luc Claessen/www.actiefotos.be

• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) in the first break
• Rasmussen leads the break through Zimmerplatz
• The peloton comes through Zimmerplatz
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) at Zimmerplatz
• It's not easy being green
• Mathieu Sprick (Bouygues Telecom) at Zimmerplatz
• Wim Vansevenant (Davitamon-Lotto) on his own at Zimmerplatz
• Thor Hushovd (Crédit Agricole) takes the second sprint
• Johan Vansummeren (Davitamon-Lotto) did another bucketload of work today
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) at the second sprint
• Christophe Brandt (Davitamon-Lotto) at the second sprint
• How far to go? Asks Tom Boonen

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Billions and billions of fans watch the Tour in Germany
• The early break speeds through town
• One of CN's satellite balloons takes a break
• You have to be quick to see the Tour go past
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) has had better days
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) descends in yellow
• Pieter Weening (Rabobank) is chased by a mad fan on the Col de la Schlucht
• The group flies to the top of the Col de la Schlucht
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) through the throng
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) leads Vinokourov and McGee on the Col de la Schlucht

Images by AFP Photo

• Can I…tempt you? Mmm, tunafish!
• T-Mobile were forced on the defensive early on
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) leads the break
• Thor Hushovd (Crédit Agricole) attacks in pursuit of the three leaders
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) shadowed by Ullrich and Moreau
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) stretches while Beloki has a pained look on his face
• Pieter Weening (Rabobank) takes a flyer on the last climb
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile Team) puts the hurt on Savoldelli and Armstrong
• Andreas Klöden (T-Mobile Team) in pursuit of Weening
• The photo finish showed how close it was

Images by Andrea Hübner/www.velo-photos.com

• Big crowds at Pforzheim before the start of stage 8.
• Kjell Carlström (Liquigas-Bianchi)
• Happy with his mountain jersey: Fabian Wegmann (Gerolsteiner).
• CSC team bikes before the start.
• Franco Pellizotti (Liquigas-Bianchi)
• Agent Garzelli
• Roberto Heras (Liberty Seguros)
• Servais Knaven (Quickstep-Innergetic)
• Iban Mayo (Euskaltel-Euskadi)
• Patrick Sinkewitz (Quickstep-Innergetic) had to sign a lot af sheets today.
• Ivan Basso (Team CSC) smiles at the fans while checking his bike.
• Chris Horner (Saunier Duval)
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile Team)
• Spanish Champion 2005 Juan Manuel Garate (Saunier Duval) smiles for the camera
• Alberto Contador Velasco (Liberty Seguros-Würth)
• Andreas Klöden (T-Mobile Team)
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel)
• Maillot Jaune Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel)
• Thor Hushovd (Crédit Agricole) and Fabian Cancellara (Fassa Bortolo) after having passed the feed zone
• Davitamon-Lotto leads the peloton on the way back to France.
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile Team)
• The peloton passes Lahr on their way to Gérardmer.
• Michael Albasini (Liquigas-Bianchi) and Sébastien Hinault (Crédit Agricole)
• Stéphane Augé (Cofidis)
• Jean-Patrick Nazon (Ag2r)
• Dave Zabriskie (Team CSC) and Luciano Pagliarini (Liquigas-Bianchi) were the last riders on the road

Stage 7 - Friday, July 8: Lunéville - Karlsruhe, 228.5 km

For a thumbnail gallery of these images, click here

Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• Fabian Wegmann (Gerolsteiner) spends much of the day solo.
• The peloton passes an old US military jeep.
• Discovery comes to the front after the feed zone.
• Fans are out as the race approaches Germany.
• The group still together after the start.
• Tom Boonen (Quickstep) riding in the green of the top sprinter.
• Heading towards Germany the terrain changes and the trees are denser.
• Fans watch as the group rounds the bend towards the finishing straight.
• A crash with 200m to go took out Isaac Galvez (C) and Angelo Furlan (L)
• Tom Boonen (Quickstep), Baden Cooke (Francaise Des Jeux) going for it at the line.
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) celebrates his second stage win
• Robbie McEwen (Davitomon-Lotto) does it again.

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Grey skies and rain greeted the riders today
• The Tour passes through Germany
• Deutschland greets the Tour
• Lance Armstrong unpacks his lunch, while Santi Botero looks at his tunafish flavoured energy bar somewhat quizzically
• Lance, Vino, and Jan never far from each other
• McEwen and Backstedt fight it out for the win
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) beats Magnus Backstedt (Liquigas-Bianchi) to win stage 7 in Karlsruhe
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) celebrates as he wins stage 7
• Armstrong and Hincapie ride across the line

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Dang
• McEwen and Backstedt throw their bikes, but McEwen has it by three quarters of a wheel
• One rider can smile, and that's McEwen
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) celebrates his win over Backstedt and Eisel
• A happy McEwen at the finish
• Armstrong and Hincapie roll in together
• That was interesting
• Stefano Garzelli (Liquigas-Bianchi) rolls in
• Nicolas Jalabert (Phonak) after a tough day
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) in yellow still
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) blows a kiss to his family and supporters
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) smiles from the podium
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) smiles with his trophies
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) slips on the treasured maillot jaune
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) in the yellow again
• A battered Tom Boonen increased his lead in the green jersey competition
• This is how you wear the spotty jersey
• Fabian Wegmann (Gerolsteiner) likes the dots
• Fabian Wegmann (Gerolsteiner) won the mountains jersey today

Stage 6 - Thursday, July 7: Troyes - Nancy, 199 km

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Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• Lance Armstrong recieves his weight in champagne at the start today.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) rolls up for sign in.
• The group makes its way through the rolling countryside.
• Still in a bunch soon after the start.
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery bridges a gap with second place in today's stage Alexander Vinokourov (T-Mobile) on his wheel.
• The united colours of peloton.
• Riders begin to get up the road as the break forms.
• The break makes good time on a descent into Germay.
• A chasing peloton kicks up a mist on the rain soaked road.
• Bradley McGee (Francaise Des Jeux) concentrates on a slippery descent.
• Christophe Mengin (Francaise Des Jeux) leads breakaway companion Mauro Gerosa (Liquigas-Bianchi).
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery) before the rain hits hard.
• The peloton makes its way throught the town of Brienne-La-Chateau.
• Lorenzo Bernucci (Fassa Bortolo) rounds the last turn on the way to his win.

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• The peloton rides under grey skies in stage 6
• Lorenzo Bernucci (Fassa Bortolo) salutes as he wins stage 6
• Lorenzo Bernucci (Fassa Bortolo) smiles after the stage
• Lorenzo Bernucci (Fassa Bortolo) with his winner's trophy
• Lorenzo Bernucci (Fassa Bortolo) gets a big congrats from Bernard Hinault

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Lance gets his bodyweight in champagne
• Lance wonders what he will do with the champagne
• Don't drink it all at once
• Armstrong talks to the media
• Laurent Brochard (Bouygues Telecom)
• Pierrick Fedrigo (Bouygues Telecom) rides off
• Iban Mayo (Euskaltel) looks unsure, as always
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) with the serious face on
• Team CSC signing on
• Ivan Basso (CSC) checks his brakes
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) wonders what will happen today
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) rides up to sign on
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) with a little momento from yesterday's win
• Helmet, check. Glasses, check. Ears, check.
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) after sign on
• Pavel Padrnos and Paolo Savoldelli discuss a cunning plan
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) after sign on
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) leaves the sign on area
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) demonstrates lumbar flexibility
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) ready to roll
• Der Jan on the start line
• Pretenders to the throne Roberto Heras and Jan Ullrich
• We're actually friends
• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) hangin' in there
• Garzelli and Pellizotti on the start line
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) lines up
• The peloton exits Troyes through throngs of fans
• Lorenzo Bernucci (Fassa Bortolo) crosses the line with Vinokourov behind him
• Lorenzo Bernucci (Fassa Bortolo) celebrates his win in Nancy
• Lorenzo Bernucci (Fassa Bortolo) winner in Nancy
• Lorenzo Bernucci (Fassa Bortolo) is happy with himself
• Vinokourov finishes solo for second
• Thor Hushovd (CA) finished fifth and made a big jump towards the green jersey
• The Armstrong part of the peloton comes in
• George Hincapie leads in Armstrong and Merckx
• Well that could have been a bit better
• A hard day at the office for Santi Botero
• Lorenzo Bernucci (Fassa Bortolo) salutes from the podium
• Lorenzo Bernucci (Fassa Bortolo) with his winner's trophy
• Bernucci is congratulated by Mr Hinault
• Another day another maillot jaune
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) still in yellow
• Karsten Kroon (Rabobank) the new mountains leader

Images by AFP Photo

• Rain affected play during stage 6
• The peloton very strung out between Troyes and Nancy
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) jokes with Ivan Basso (CSC)
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) dons his rain jacket
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) with Jan Ullrich and Sylvain Chavanel during stage 6
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) rides ahead of Jan Ullrich in stage 6
• Karsten Kroon (Rabobank) leading the breakaway
• Johan Vansummeren and Wim Vansevenant drive the Davitamon-Lotto chase
• Christophe Mengin (Francaise des Jeux) attacks Jaan Kirsipuu on the Cote de Maron
• Jaan Kirsipuu (CA) on a descent
• Christophe Mengin (Francaise des Jeux) gives it everything to try to stay clear
• Christophe Mengin (Francaise des Jeux) nurses a black eye after hitting the barriers with 500m to go

Stage 5 - Wednesday, July 6: Chambord - Montargis, 183 km

For a thumbnail gallery of these images, click here

Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• The scenic view at today's sign on.
• Jaun Antonio Flecha (Fassa Bortolo) gets away by himself.
• Kjell Carlstrom (Liquigas-Bianchi) leads the chase group with Salvatore Commesso (Lampre) and Laszlo Bodrogi (Credit Agricole).
• Discovery leads the main bunch.
• Another group comes through trying to catch on.
• Jens Voigt (CSC) gets a little help getting back to the group.
• The bunch still chasing to bring back the leaders.
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) rides safely in the company of his teammates.
• The peloton winds through the village of Barliue.
• The sprinters come to the line.
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) shows who's number 1.
• Photographers have to get that finish shot sent out fast.
• A few cameras turn out for the podium.

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• The start was in front of Chambord's castle
• The peloton leaves Chambord
• The break rolls along in the French countryside
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) rides in yellow during stage 5
• Armstrong and Ullrich in close proximity
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) beats Tom Boonen (Quick.Step, L) to win the stage

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• I don't think they liked that I wasn't wearing yellow
• Lance is getting good at this
• Armstrong didn't want to wear yellow today
• He's popular with the kiddies too
• The jolly green giant, Tom Boonen
• Iban Mayo (Euskaltel) wondering what the day will bring again
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) signing autographs
• Baden Cooke (Francaise des Jeux) ready to work today
• Ivan Basso and Dave Zabriskie…the day after
• Woah dude! It's Joseba Beloki
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) always making adjustments
• Der Jan checks out his fahrrad
• Savoldelli focused
• Lance is always popular
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) ready for another day
• The laying on of hands
• Peekaboo! Heeeeere's Popo!
• Yaroslav Popovych (Discovery Channel) is the man in white
• Savoldelli and Popovych comrades in arms
• Boonen checks out the castle
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) rides to sign on…not in yellow
• The peloton assembles in Chambord
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) wins stage 5
• McEwen throws his bike to win the stage
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) enjoyed this one
• McEwen salutes as Boonen is frustrated
• I did it this time
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) post-stage
• Andreas Kloden and Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) come in
• The peloton streams into Montargis
• Armstrong comes into view
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) rolls across the line in 45th place
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) steps up to the podium
• Happy today Robbie McEwen
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) salutes from the podium
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) with the Aquarel winner's trophy
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) smiles on the podium with his trophies
• Armstrong salutes from the podium
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) salutes in yellow
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) gets another CL Lion
• Sleeve's a bit thin
• You're going to defend that until Paris, right?
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) salutes in green
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) still very comfy in green
• Erik Dekker (Rabobank) smiles in his dots
• Erik Dekker (Rabobank) enjoying the polka-dots
• Yaroslav Popovych (Discovery Channel) tries the white jersey on for size
• Yaroslav Popovych (Discovery Channel) puts on the white jersey of best young rider

Images by AFP Photo

• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) strips down at kilometre 0 so he can put on the yellow jersey. He didn't want to wear it out of respect for Dave Zabriskie, who lost it because of a crash.
• Armstrong puts on the yellow
• Juan Antonio Flecha (Fassa Bortolo) on his own
• Laszlo Bodrogi (Credit Agricole) leads Carlstrom and Commesso in pursuit of Flecha
• Kjell Carlstrom (Liquigas) does a turn in the break
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) rides mid-pack during stage 5
• Erik Dekker (Rabobank) concentrating in the dotted jersey
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) ahead of teammate Jan Ullrich during stage 5
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) rounds the last corner behind Boonen, Rodriguez, and Davis

Stage 4 - Tuesday, July 5: Tours - Blois TTT, 67.5 km

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Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• Discovery gets warmed up.
• Chris Horner (Saunier Duval-Prodir) gets ready to go.
• Euskaltel-Euskadi gets in some trainer time.
• The Lampre team leaves the start gate.
• And they're off!
• AG2R lines up.
• Bobby Julich brings CSC in for a fast time.
• Floyd Landis leads in the Phonak team.
• Credit Agricole bears down on the finish.
• Fassa Bortolo ripping along through town
• Roberto Heras (Liberty Seguros) takes his pull.
• The Discovery team coming in with the fastest time.
• The Discovery team crosses the line with Lance bringing them in
• David Zabriskie (CSC) limps in after a fall close to the finish.
• David Zabriskie limps in, showing the wounds from his crash.
• Lance Armstrong enjoys the limelight with his teammates after taking the stage.

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Yaroslav Popovych (Discovery Channel) does a turn on the front
• Hincapie and Armstrong were the team's main drivers
• There they go… Discovery Channel en route to a stage win
• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) powers the CSC team
• The winning team: Discovery Channel
• It took four stages but Lance has the yellow now
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) salutes from the podium
• A happy Lance Armstrong in yellow
• Yaroslav Popovych (Discovery Channel) is now the best young rider

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Armstrong pulls off after doing a turn
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) leads Discovery's nine man squad in the TTT
• The face of Zabriskie says it all
• If the shirt fits then Armstrong will wear it

Images by AFP Photo

• Liquigas-Bianchi en route to setting the early best time
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) leads the T-Mobile squad in perfect formation
• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) gets a push after his crash
• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) rides home, battered and bruised
• Sheryl Crow applauds the Discovery Channel team
• Sheryl Crow gives Armstrong a big kiss after he won the yellow jersey today
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) with sidekick Sheryl Crow

Stage 3 - Monday, July 4: La Châtaigneraie - Tours, 212.5 km

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Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• Thomas Voeckler (Bouygues Telecom) signs some autographs for eager fans.
• Matt White (Cofidis) all smiles at the start.
• The break that tried to get away.
• The bunch chases the group of three.
• An old stone wall provides a backdrop for the group.
• A ribbon of colour through the wheat.
• Cloudy skies and an old church provide a dramatic background for the peloton.
• The bunch makes its way up to the first KOM of the day.

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) enjoying the moment
• Bobby and DZ chillin'
• An empty podium
• The CSC team wait on stage
• Team CSC is still the number one team
• Voeckler and Fedrigo are two of Bouygues Telecom's highest profile riders
• Thomas Voeckler (Bouygues Telecom) climber extraordinaire
• Thomas Voeckler (Bouygues Telecom) descends from sign-on
• Pierrick Fedrigo (Bouygues) smiles in his French champion's jersey
• Stuart O'Grady (Cofidis) walks down from sign-on
• Laszlo Bodrogi (Credit Agricole) wonders what comes next
• Quo vadis? Stefano Garzelli (Liquigas-Bianchi)
• The name's Vino… Vinokourov
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) ready to roll
• Andreas Kloden (T-Mobile)
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) concentrates at the start
• T-Mobile DS Mario Kummer with Jan Ullrich
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) poses
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) the man in green
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) has a nice green kit now
• Zabriskie and Boonen at the start
• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) wonders what the day has in store
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) makes his way through the scrum
• Armstrong nervous
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) is a bit wary of signing autographs these days
• I bequeath 5 million dollars to Prince George Sanoussi, the first son of Late Zainoul Abidine Sanoussi, who was the former Foreign Affairs Minister of Guinea-Conakry
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) adjusts his helmet
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) never far from his bodyguard at the start
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) ready to go
• The peloton lines up under overcast skies
• And it's Boonen who gets it
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) celebrates
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) moments after crossing the line
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) signals his second stage win
• Make that two for Tom
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) post-stage
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) post-stage
• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) salutes from the podium
• One more CL Lion for Zabriskie
• I'm starting to enjoy this
• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) one more day in yellow
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) smiles from the podium
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) salutes from the podium
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) smiles in green
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) looking good in green
• Erik Dekker (Rabobank) in the polka dot mountains jersey

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) rides in the company of a couple of Davitamon-Lottos
• A sunflower greets the breakaways
• A few medieval knights take time out of their busy schedules to watch the Tour. Hang on…
• Vive le Tour!
• Massive crowds are a feature of the Tour, every year
• The Tour peloton en route to Tours
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) drives for home as McEwen puts his head into O'Grady, leading to a relegation
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) wins the third stage in Tours

Images by AFP Photo

• CSC riding to protect Zabriskie's yellow
• Here comes the Tour circus!
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) cruising
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) getting into the swing of things
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) likes it shaken, not stirred
• Rubens Bertogliati (Saunier Duval) leads the three man break
• Erik Dekker (Rabobank) powers the break
• Erik Dekker (Rabobank) did his best to ensure the break's success
• This is what the rest of the peloton saw of Tom Boonen at the finish
• The photo finish has Boonen ahead by over a length

Stage 2 - Sunday, July 3: Challans - Les Essarts, 181.5 km

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Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• Magnus Backstedt (Liquigas-Bianchi) ready for the day.
• Chris Horner (Saunier Duval-Prodir) living large at the Tour.
• Tom Boonen (Quickstep) does an interview before the start.
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) signs autographs for some Aussie fans.
• Booby Julich (CSC) makes nice with the crowds.
• Clear skies and hot weather greeted the bunch today.
• The group strings out heading towards the first sprint line.
• Winding up for the finish line.
• How about that? I won, says Tom Boonen
• Tom Boonen (Quickstep) celebrates his win.
• The rest of the bunch make their way in.
• Australia is well represented at this year's Tour…with Oppy!!
• Thomas Voeckler (Bouyges Telecom) French cycling's new hero, gets a boost on the podium.
• David Zabriskie (CSC) spends another day in yellow.

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) strikes a pose
• Thank you
• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) at the start
• Waiting for something to happen
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) now comes in green
• Fabian Cancellara (Fassa Bortolo) has the white jersey, but wants yellow…somehow
• Pierrick Fedrigo (Bouygues Telecom) descends after signing on
• Basso and Zabriskie at sign on
• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) gets ready to rock 'n roll
• You just stay there
• The man in green walks on stage
• Armstrong descends from the stage
• Now where did I leave it?
• Lance after sign on
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) giving a rare laugh
• Pierrick Fedrigo (Bouygues Telecom) wonders what the day will bring
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) looking a bit serious
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) back to his smiling self at the start of stage 2
• Spanish champion Juan Manuel Garate (Saunier Duval, R) presents his teammate and lanterne rouge, Leonardo Piepoli
• Santi Botero (Phonak) ready for another day
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) descends after signing on
• Laurent Brochard (Bouygues Telecom) and his mullet
• Baden Cooke (Francaise des Jeux) and his mohawk
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) smiles serenely
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) looks for his bike
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) is mobbed
• Stefano Garzelli (Liquigas) signs autographs
• Levi Leipheimer, the man in blue
• Fabian Cancellara (Fassa Bortolo) smiles at the start
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) obliges the fans
• Paco Mancebo (Illes Balears) after sign on
• Alejandro Valverde (Illes Balears) after sign on
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) signing autographs
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) is ready as always
• Iban Mayo (Euskaltel) looks concerned
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) has a pre-race coke
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) does his usual bike check
• All lined up and ready to go
• The peloton assembles in Challans
• OK now what?
• The colour of the Tour
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) was well in front of McEwen with 50m to go, as the peloton split behind due to a crash
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) just after the line
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) celebrates his win in Les Essarts
• Nice, I got one! Tom Boonen crosses the line
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) wins the stage
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) celebrates his victory
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) eases off the throttle
• Andreas Kloden (T-Mobile) crosses the line
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) finished 56th
• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) rolls across for 71st
• Magnus Backstedt (Liquigas) finishes the stage
• Armstrong comes in
• Thank you Tom Boonen is here
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) salutes on the podium
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) puts on the green jersey
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) smiles in green
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) in green
• Here, let me help you with that
• Look what I got, look what I got! Thomas Voeckler is very excited with his polka dot jersey
• Thomas Voeckler (Bouygues Telecom) happy in dots
• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) puts on the maillot jaune
• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) is just not sure
• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) salutes after his second day in yellow

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Lance Armstrong doesn't get these very often
• Lance Armstrong in the green jersey
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) comfortably wins the second stage in Les Essarts
• The Tour de France is go from Challans

Images by AFP Photo

• David Canada (Saunier Duval) drives the break
• Sylvain Calzati (Ag2r) leading Voeckler and the break
• Sylvain Chavanel (Cofidis) checks out his cleat
• The devil up to his old tricks
• The peloton en masse
• French churches were a feature of today's stage
• Sheryl Crow says hello
• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) marked by T-Mobile
• Armstrong and Zabriskie have a chat
• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) surrounded by his teammates

Stage 1 - Saturday, July 2: Fromentine - Noirmoutier-en-l'Ile ITT, 19 km

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Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• Zabriskie's point?
• A Bouygues Telecom rider rides through the wheat fields.
• Francis Mourey (FDJ) rolling along
• Alberto Contador (Liberty Seguros) tries to go faster
• David Canada (Prodir-Saunier Duval) with the aero posi
• Michael Rasmussen (Rabobank) guts it out
• Are we there yet?
• Santi Botero (Phonak) puts his head down
• Cadel Evans (Davitamon-Lotto) can't get much further forward
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) produced another great ride to finish fourth
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) didn't lose too much time, but is no threat for the yellow
• Ivan Basso (CSC) going as hard as he can
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) looked fast but wasn't quick enough
• Lance was fast
• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) surrounded by yellow on the podium

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) passing Jan Ullrich in stage 1
• Ivan Basso (CSC) rides during the first stage

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) gives gas
• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) en route to a great win
• Laszlo Bodrogi (CA) was one of the early starters and finished a good 5th
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) was the best of the rest, but was still over 50 seconds behind Zabriskie and Armstrong
• Paolo Savoldelli is yet another top rider in Discovery's arsenal
• Michael Rogers (Quick.Step) was well back today in 45th
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) heads for home
• Alejandro Valverde (Illes Balears) does his best
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) was his team's second best rider in 4th
• Serguei Gonchar (Domina Vacanze) on his way to 39th
• Iban Mayo (Euskaltel) already lost 3'15
• Bradley McGee (Francaise des Jeux) would have been disappointed with 18th
• Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) was one of the best of the sprinters
• Sylvain Chavanel (Bouygues) French TT champ
• Magnus Backstedt (Liquigas) was two minutes off the pace
• Christophe Moreau (CA) lets his tongue do the talking
• Roberto Heras (Liberty Seguros) had an average ride for 79th
• Fabian Cancellara (Fassa Bortolo) couldn't repeat his win of last year
• Juan Manuel Garate (Saunier Duval) finished 94th
• Santi Botero (Phonak) was only 25th today
• Cadel Evans (Davitamon-Lotto) in suffer mode
• Ivan Basso (CSC) didn't have a great ride
• Francesco Mancebo (Illes Balears) makes it look painful
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) heading for home
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) knows he's done a good job
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) rounds a corner
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) working hard
• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) post-stage
• Stefano Garzelli (Liquigas) finished mid-field
• Andreas Kloden (T-Mobile) thinks about last year
• Yaroslav Popovych (Discovery) can be satisfied
• Jens Voigt (CSC) sucks in some air
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) after his ride
• Stuart O'Grady (Cofidis) warms down
• Y'know, I won this race five times
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) unstraps the battle gear
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel)
• Paolo Savoldelli speaks
• Michael Rogers (Quick.Step) really didn't enjoy that
• Iban Mayo (Euskaltel) trying to explain his 175th place
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) gears down
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) finishes his ride
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) crosses the line
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) realises things didn't go too well
• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) salutes from the podium
• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) is happy with yellow
• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) with his stuffed lion
• Erm… so what do I do with this? Sell it on eBay?
• Fabian Cancellara (Fassa Bortolo) was best young rider

Images by AFP Photo

• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) grits his teeth and gives it full gas
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) powers along during the TT
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) has Ullrich in his sights
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) prepares to pass Jan Ullrich
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) almost on Ullrich's rear wheel. The definining moment of the 2005 Tour already?
• Ullrich sees Lance ride away
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) did not have the answer to Lance's speed
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) had a very good ride to finish sixth
• A word from Mr Hinault for Dave Zabriskie

July 1: Team presentation

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Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• I covered the 1950 Tour and I survived!
• The Tour's auto fleet is high tech this year
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) sports his earring and a bandage
• Alexandre Vinokourov shares a joke with Ullrich
• Guerini and Ullrich
• Lance Armstrong jokes with his Discovery Channel teammates
• Chechu Rubiera chats to his Discovery Channel teammates
• Lance Armstrong looks happy to be back
• Pierrick Fedrigo (Bouygues) the new French champion
• Thomas Voeckler (Bouygues Telecom) a hero in France
• Stuart O'Grady (Cofidis) contemplates the next three weeks
• Stefano Zanini (Quick.Step) ready for action
• Tom Boonen is Quick.Step's sprint gun
• Jens Voigt and CSC
• Liquigas-Bianchi with smiles on their faces
• Floyd Landis and the Phonak brigade
• Euskaltel-Euskadi ride up to the team presentation
• Future champions?

July 1: Armstrong challenges the wind

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Images by Tim Maloney/Cyclingnews.com

• The boys are back in town: Discovery Channel Pro Cycling Team poses at its first Tour De France (L to R): Lance Armstrong, Jose Azevedo, Chechu Rubiera, Benjamin Noval, George Hincapie, Manuel "Triki" Beltran, Pavel "Jaws" Padrnos, 2005 Giro d'Italia winner Paolo Savodelli and Yaroslav Popovych.
• Lance chats with Nike's Margie Wargo before hitting the road in Nantes

June 30: Discovery, T-Mobile and Gerolsteiner hit the road

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Images by AFP Photo

• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel, L) rides with team-mate Chechu Rubiera.
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) on a sunny but cool day on the roads outside Nates.
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) leads his team during a training ride. Armstrong's Discovery Channel team is once again one of the strongest, deepest squads in the Tour.
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) smiles during the team's training ride near Nantes. Maybe he's thinking that it's only three weeks to go!
• Lance Armstrong and George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) take it to the bridge, crossing to the causeway road from the mailnad to Noirmoutier.
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) with teammate George Hincapie on their way to Noirmoutier during a training session
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) gets down in the aero bars of his new TTX time trial bike
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel, R) and teammate George Hincapie ride their time trial bikes in training for the opening stage.
• The Discovery Channel team gets in a little team time trial practice near Noirmoutier. The opening time trial and team event will be crucial in establishing a psychological edge in this year's Tour.
• Jan Ullrich and Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) lead out their team for a training session. The crimson juggernaut has but one aim this year - a top podium spot in Paris for Ullrich.
• Alexandre Vinokourov (T-Mobile) - the Kazakhstan national champion is one of the three most dangerous men in the race (alongside teammates Jan Ullrich and Andreas Kloeden) as far as Lance Armstrong's chances of a seventh win are concerned.
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile, 2nd R) leads teammates (from L) Stephan Schreck, Daniele Nardello and Alexandre Vinokourov during a training session near Saint-Jean-de-Monts.
• T-Mobile united - the whole team rolls together on a pre-Tour training ride.
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile) heads out for a training session near Saint-Jean-de-Monts. Ullrich's pre-Tour preparation is long past, and any riding he and the other contenders are doing now is just to keep the legs turning. Will he be a contender this year? We'll soon know.
• Jan Ullrich (T-Mobile, L) gives a press conference in Challans. Illness in 2004 meant Ullrich was not a threat in that year's Tour, but he is expected to contend for the win this year.
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) heads up Gerolsteiner's blue wave at the Tour.
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner, 2nd R) leads his teammates on his way to Noirmoutier during a training session. Leipheimer is looking to improve on his 2004 ninth place.

June 30: What's up, doc?

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Images by AFP Photo

• Thomas Voeckler (Bouygues Telecom) shows off his muscles at the pre-Tour medical. After his stint in yellow last year Voeckler is one of France's great hopes for the 2005 Tour.
• Robbie McEwen (Davitamon Lotto) demonstrates a sprinter's lung capacity at the per-Tour medical. Although he says the Tour green jersey contest is "over-rated", McEwen is sure to be a contender in the sprinters' competition.
• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) takes a deep breath before the 2005 Tour.
• Wilfried Cretskens (Quickstep) makes sure team-mate Tom Boonen's heart is fully functional for the three weeks ahead.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) looks utterly delighted to be undergoing the pre-race medical.
• Fred Rodriguez (Davitamon) gets his height checked at the pre-Tour medical. Rodriguez is one of two talented sprinters on the team, along with Robbie McEwen.
• Baden Cooke (Francaise des Jeux) has a new scary haircut to intimidate his rivals during the green jersey sprints. Er, Baden, you'll be wearing a helmet...
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) gets his height measured by Tour de France doctor Gerard Porte at the Tour medical check in Challans.
• He's alive!! Lance Armstrong at the pre-Tour medical check up.

June 30: Lance Armstrong's pre-Tour press conference

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Images by Anthony Tan/Cyclingnews.com

• Lance Armstrong (Discovery Channel) speaks to the assembled media for the last time at a pre-Tour press conference in Challans, France

Images by AFP Photo

• He's alive!! Lance at the pre-Tour medical check up