Cadel Evans rode the Galibier to chase the breakaway of Andy Schleck in the stage 18 of the Tour de France. Evans gained some minutes in that climb but Andy Currently leads him in 1’03″.

Evans chances to capture the title becomes brighter for he has now to contend the Schleck brothers as defending champion Alberto Contador drops out of conversation when was left behind yesterday.

Tour De France Stage 19 provides the opportunity for Evans to be on the yellow jersey. Alpe d’Huez has been a legendary Alps to climb as part of the Tour de France. Evans strength can be tested here and he needs to make an attack. Of all the contenders, only Evans as of the moment stayed with his rivals when they made the acceleration. He never made the attack in the TDF, expect him to do it today.

As for Andy Schleck, his lead over Evans might not be enough for him to win the tour. Evans has been good in individual time trial that he can gain that 1 minute deficit on Saturday. Schleck must make another move today if he wants to win the tour. Though he is prepared to challenge Contador in the time trial, it is Evans this time the poses the threat.

The road to Alpe d’Huez would be difficult than usual because the riders have to clime Galibier once again from the other side of the mountain. This is a high category ascent that probably the place of attack for the contenders.

Meanwhile Alpe d’Huez is known for the 21 hairpin bends of Alpe d’Huez (13.8km at 8% gradient). The gradient alone can make the riders in a difficult ride. The breakaways might succeed but we all know this time that attacks from Contador is expected. He will not give up the Tour de France without fighting his best. Contador might dig deeper today to win the stage though he needs to distance himself in at least three minutes over Evans, and the Schleck brothers.

Tour de France stage 18 results will again alter the overall standings.