Australian-born German Heinrich Haussler claimed his maiden stage win in the Tour de France Friday as rainy conditions put a dampener on an anticipated battle for the yellow jersey. Haussler was part of an early breakaway on the 200km stage before he left his two remaining companions with two climbs still remaining. After coming over the summit of the Col du Platzerwasel in the company of Sylvain Chavanel the Cervélo team rider went off on his own to quickly open up a gap on the Frenchman. The peloton with all the main favorites, and current yellow jersey wearer Rinaldo Nocentini, were still seven minutes behind Haussler when he came over the finish line in triumph. Spaniard Amets Txurruka of the Euskaltel team was second over the finish at just over four minutes behind.
(Photo: Roberto Bettini)