Robic and Fachleitner, fifth in the general classification, started to work together, and left Brambilla and Ronconi minutes behind. Around 140 km before the finish, they were three minutes ahead of Brambilla, which made Robic the virtual leader of the race. At that point Robic told Fachleitner: "You can not win the Tour, because I will not let you escape.
Robic and Fachleitner, fifth in the overall standings, began collaborating, leaving Brambilla and Ronconi behind by a few minutes. Around 140 km before the finish line, they were three minutes ahead of Brambilla, making Robic the virtual leader of the race. At that point, Robic told Fachleitner: "You cannot win the Tour because I will not let you escape."