Glory in sight as Danish cyclist Rasmussen extends lead

0 Comments | AFP, July, 2007

GOURETTE, France (AFP) — Denmark's Michael Rasmussen took a significant step towards winning the Tour de France's yellow jersey here Wednesday by dominating Spanish rival Alberto Contador on the 16th stage.

Contador, who beat the Rabobank climber on their 15th stage duel to the Plateau de Beille on Monday, could only finish third behind Discovery Channel teammate Levi Leipheimer after the final day of racing in the Pyrenees.

Rasmussen extended his 2min 23sec lead over Contador to 3:10 ahead of the race's penulatimate stage, a 54.5km time trial on Saturday where Rasmussen is hoping to secure what would be a controversial victory.

"I have over a three minute lead over Contador and I would look to extend that in Saturday's time-trial," said Rasmussen.

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