2016 Tour de France: Sagan wins, Froome gains seconds – Ventoux shortened

 Peter Sagan wins in Montpellier, Chris Froome gains 12 seconds on rivals 

Wind played an important part in yesterday's stage causing several gaps in the peloton and making it a hectic day. Peter Sagan along with his team mate – Maciej Bodnar – made the decisive break some 12k before the finish. Only Chris Froome and Geraint Thomas were able to get onto their wheels. The quartet raced flat out – at one time gaining a little over 20 seconds on their rivals. Sagan won the sprint, while Froome finished six seconds ahead + a six second time bonus. This now puts him 28 seconds ahead of Adam Yates, who has extended his lead in the White Jersey competition to 1'.42 over Louis Meintjes, who had presumably got caught out by the wind. Peter Sagan has further cemented his hold on the Green Jersey, especially as Cav had a mechanical problem.      

Stage 12: Montpellier to Mont Ventoux  – Chalet ReynardHigh winds has caused this stage to be shortened with the finish at Chalet Reynard rather than on the mountain top because of the forecast of winds over 100kms at the summit and on 4˚C. It will still be a steep climb up to the finish but will be protected by the trees. There should still be some gaps between the GC riders. High winds may also play a part before the Ventoux is reached.