Thaindian News

According to the major cyclists, Levi Leipheimer’s loss due to a broken bone in his right wrist has leveled the playing field significantly in the Tour de France 2009. Prior to Leipheimer’s injury concern, his team Astana was one of the best teams in cycling. Now, it’s barely a good team, leave alone the term “greatest”.

According to the sources most assume that Leipheimer’s departure due to the injury during the first of the race’s defining mountain stages had hurt his fellow side kick Lance Armstrong more than it damaged Alberto Contador. Even Contador termed Leipheimer’s sudden departure from this year’s Tour de France as “a very serious blow”. Apparently, earlier it seemed that Leipheimer had suffered only a strained list, before it was reported that he had been carrying a broken bone.

“Not only because in the mountains he is very good. Levi is also very good in the descents. We really missed him today as he is one of the best descenders. He’s very good at guiding us down the mountain in a safe way,” said Contador who maintained a two second lead over Lance Armstrong.

The 35 year old cyclist was just 39 seconds behind race leader, Rinaldo Niconteni and was placed in the fourth spot in the three week race which is heading towards its final week. “The pain in the wrist is one thing but seeing you guys roll off without me is immeasurable,” said Leipheimer in a video posted in his Twitter account. Astana team manager John Bruyneel had reportedly said that Leipheimer “could have potentially won the tour”. The departure of Leipheimer leaves his team Astana in deep trouble, while the race advances to its crucial stages.