Contador well ahead as Tour enters final phase

Spain's Alberto Contador has a firm grip on the overall lead as the Tour de France enters its final phase.

The 2007 winner was fastest in yesterday's time trials, stretching his lead to four minutes and 11 seconds.

Andy Schleck moved up to second place, with seven-times champion Lance Armstrong more than a minute further back in third place.

Ireland's Nicolas Roche is 25th overall.

With three stages left to contest, the riders are facing a 178km trek from Bourgoin-Jaillieu to Aubenas today.