When a Spanish rider is tipped as the favourite to win a race that crosses Belgium and finishes on the Amstel Gold race's Cauberg climb, you know something's gone awry. That was the weight on Alejandro Valverde's shoulders today, but he should be used to such pressure by now. Aside from being everyone's favourite to win the Tour, we've also accused him of being the solution to Spanish cycling's current crisis and some kind of man-god sent to rid the world of boring, science obsessed American riders.

Instead of winning the stage though, he fell over sideways a few kilometers from the base of the hill. For some reason he decided to break his collarbone and go home just before he was supposed to be taking the lead in the Tour. That's pretty bad race tactics if you ask us.

What could possibly cheer us up after that? Oh, Tom Boonen in yellow? Go on then.

Valverde watch:
Writhing on the floor in agony before getting into his team car. He probably won't win the Tour now, so we've decided to shift alliance:

Mayo watch:
Finished 76th on the stage! Currently 63rd overall! Punctured at one point! This is going to be a looong Tour...