Netcompany INEOS duo Carlos Rodríguez and Laurens De Plus animated the Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes' queen stage on an aggressive day of racing on the iconic Grand Colombier that delivered a major shake-up in the race overall.
The pair formed part of a dangerous 10-rider move that escaped with 61km remaining, forcing the race into action long before the finale. Unfortunately the pair were never given more than a minute lead by the peloton driven by the GC contenders, as Rodríguez remained at the front until 23km to go, while De Plus was among the final escapees to be caught with 11km remaining.
Kevin Vauquelin fought his way back into contention after being distanced earlier in the stage, rejoining the favourites' group before the foot of the final climb. However, the accumulated efforts took their toll as the race exploded among the GC contenders and he finished 18th on the day.
Isaac Del Toro (UAE-XRG) proved the strongest rider on the day, catching and dropping Juan Ayuso (Lidl-Trek) inside the final two kilometres before soloing to victory.