Tony Gallopin’s brief ride in yellow came to an end, as he finished 4:46 down to drop to fifth overall at 3:12.

“It was my worst day on a bike,” Gallopin said. “Four hours of suffering … Every climb was an ordeal. I really did everything I could but I paid for my efforts last week and yesterday. I’m sorry. Even though it was hard and I had no illusions, I was still hoping to keep it deep inside. It was beyond my strength, I gave it my all.”