I have watched this stage many, many times when forced to do intervals on the trainer. Each time, I can not help but notice Contador waving back to Andy shortly after Contador attacks, as if he wants him to back off. This comes after Contador consistently and somewhat nervously looks back over his shoulder to see how far away Schleck and Evans are. Right after the wave happens, Andy appears to "crack" but thirty seconds later looks cool as a cucumber riding tempo the rest of the way up the climb.
The motion in question is at 7:12 here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-cZcyj9R6k
Why would anyone make this motion at all? It's not to wave off the swarming fans, as they aren't swarming him. Maybe he had an acute arm spasm?
It was clear at this point in the race that Contador wasn't going to win the TdF. I would guess it would benefit a number of people for Contador to put on a show and win the iconic stage. Good for Contador's reputation, good for the "spectacle", maybe good for Schleck with a little side deal...
Of course Rolland was the monkey wrench if this is even partly true. Still, can anyone offer a more valid explanation of what Contador is doing besides motioning for Andy to back off?
The motion in question is at 7:12 here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-cZcyj9R6k
Why would anyone make this motion at all? It's not to wave off the swarming fans, as they aren't swarming him. Maybe he had an acute arm spasm?
It was clear at this point in the race that Contador wasn't going to win the TdF. I would guess it would benefit a number of people for Contador to put on a show and win the iconic stage. Good for Contador's reputation, good for the "spectacle", maybe good for Schleck with a little side deal...
Of course Rolland was the monkey wrench if this is even partly true. Still, can anyone offer a more valid explanation of what Contador is doing besides motioning for Andy to back off?