TODAY’S STAGE OF the Tour de France ended in bizarre, and comical, fashion as race leader Chris Froome ran up the arduous Mont Ventoux after damaging his bike in a collision.
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But the reigning champion kept hold of the yellow jersey despite the drama after initially dropping down to sixth in the provisional General Classification standings.
Tour organisers reinstated him in the lead at the end of the 12th stage, now with a 47 second lead over British compatriot Adam Yates.
With swathes of fans encroaching on the road making for a narrow route on the ascent up Mont Ventoux, BMC Racing rider Richie Porte ran into the back of a breaking motorbike.
Froome was caught in the subsequent pile-up as he ploughed into Porte and opted to progress on foot in a bid to avoid losing valuable time.
Team Sky rider Froome transferred to a neutral bike after jogging up part of the hill for less than a minute before finally being handed a replacement to cross the line.
“What a finish. Ventoux is full of surprises. Around the last kilometre a motorbike braked hard,” explained Froome on French TV after being presented with the yellow jersey.
“I was with Richie Porte and Bauke Mollema and all three of us went into the back of it. I got hit from behind by another motorbike that broke my bicycle.
“I’m happy with the jury’s decision. I think it’s right. Thanks to them and thanks to the Tour de France organisation.”
It wasn’t a good day for Ireland’s Dan Martin as he dropped to ninth overall.
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