Andy Schleck’s heroic performance in climbing Galibier and reaching the finish alone might be enough for him to win the Tour de France 2011. Schleck didn’t only win the stage but most importantly he made separation against Contador. Morever, Schleck distanced himself from his main rival and defending champion Alberto Contador.

Cadel Evans led the chase in the last ascent with Voeckler, Ivan Basso and Contador. However, in the last 4km Contador found himself in throuble that he couldn’t keep up with Evans anymore. Damiano Cunego was with the main group also. Evans pushed to the limit in chasing the lead of Schleck but it wasn’t enough for the group to catch up.

Voeckler showed to the world that he has the legs to keep up with the big names. He was with Basso, Evans, Frank Schleck while Contador was left behind. This may not be Contador’s year for he doesn’t have the team to help him in the group.

Andy Schleck surprised the main field at the 60km mark when he launched an attack as the contenders made no reaction at all. Schleck continuously increased the lead over his main rivals to 4:04 but the group of the yellow jersey Voeckler never gave up on the last climb.

Schleck’s attack was well orchestrated because ahead of him were his two teammates who helped him in increasing the lead to over four minutes. However, his teammates works were done that Schleck must go alone. Many expected Schleck to falter because of his early attack and that he couldn’t sustain it. But he pedaled his way to the finish line with so much power and will.

Andy Schleck is now second in the overall standings 15 seconds behind Voeckler. Evans tried to alleviate the lead of Schleck and he was successful with that. Truly, TDF Stage 18 results changed the Tour de France overall standings. Alberto Contador dropped to 7th and 4’44″ seconds behind Voeckler.

Tour de France Overall Standings 2011 after stage 18

1. VOECKLER Thomas
2. SCHLECK Andy + 00′ 15″
3. SCHLECK Frank + 01′ 08″
4. EVANS Cadel + 01′ 12″
5. CUNEGO Damiano + 03′ 46″
6. BASSO Ivan + 03′ 46″
7. CONTADOR Alberto + 04′ 44″
8. SANCHEZ Samuel 21 + 05′ 20″
9. DANIELSON Tom 52 + 07′ 08″
10. PERAUD Jean-Christophe + 09′ 27″
11. TAARAMAE Rein 151 + 09′ 36″
12. ROLLAND Pierre 188 + 10′ 09″