There was controversy in today's stage of the Giro d’Italia as organisers caused confusion over whether a descent was actually going ahead on the route.

On a day when the defending champion, Cadel Evans’ defence of his Tour de France title disintegrated on the perilously steep slopes of the Pyrenees, Ireland’s Dan Martin turned in one of the performances of his career to finish seventh on yesterday’s 16th stage from Pau to Bagnères-de-Luchon.

Cadel Evans’ Tour de France title defence appeared to be in tatters on stage 16 as Bradley Wiggins sought to retain the race leader’s yellow jersey for a 10th day.

TOUR de France leader Frank Schleck has vowed to continue to use the strength and experience of his CSC team to tighten his grip on the yellow jersey.

LEONARDO PIEPOLI continued Saunier Duval’s domination of the mountains in the Tour de France as the Hautacam summit played havoc with the yellow jersey on stage 10.