There have been many occasions where a Frenchman has won a stage- and then French expectations has cursed the rider. They do love a winner- especially if he is French but they seem to expect that "He has done it today-He will keep doing it" Doesn't happen and that lead ballon gets on the riders neck and that is it.

Voeckler was different. All the way through he knew that he didn't have a chance on the TT- but he gave everyone else a good race to catch him. He may not have made the Podium but he is one big French hero. And wil be till next year.