There were no surprises -- Thomas Voeckler excepted -- today, when Lance Armstrong moved out of the yellow jersey. It would have been folly to expect the US Postal boys to chase and defend all the way to the Pyrenees, especially with the big final week to come in the Alps .

So, early attackers always had a chance of success, but you still had to ride 120 of the 125 miles to do it, and that is a lot to ask in the condition of high winds and heavy rain.

Five riders decided the day and French champion, in a dream season, has now donned the yellow jersey -- the first Frenchman since Richard Virenque held it briefly last year.

Armstrong is very content with the opening week of the Tour de France. He has shown everyone he is strong and, just as important, his team is strong as well.

This Tour is already looking that his to lose, rather than for the others to win.