German Erik Zabel won the eighth stage of the Tour de France on Sunday, his second victory in a row and third of this year's race.
Second was Italian Nicola Minali. Dutchman Jeroen Blijlevens, who won Friday's stage after Zabel was disqualified, was third.Frenchman Cedric Vasseur stayed in the overall lead as the Tour entered its second week.
Sprinters had dominated the first week, as expected over the flat stages. Mario Cipollini won twice and Zabel three.
Things should change over the next two days.
"After eight days, nothing happened," said Bernard Hinault, who won the Tour five times. "Certain of the favorites will lose the Tour Monday."
The riders are hoping for good weather and no falls. The Tour was plagues with the the first week.
Monday also is Bastille Day in France, a national holiday.
"To carry the yellow jersey on the national day is exceptional," Vasseur said. "I am going to try to outdo myself. I don't, however, have any thoughts to say I will be among the best."
The only stage not decided by a finishing sprint was the fifth on Thursday when Vasseur had a long breakaway and was able to hold on to more than two minutes of his once 17-minute margin.
It's no wonder he is wearing the leader's yellow jersey. Zabel is 81 seconds back. Chris Boardman is third, less than three minutes behind.
Zabel won Saturday's stage. The previous day, he finished first but was placed last for a sprint that hindered other riders.