• Bradley Wiggins and Mark Cavendish share a smile at the start of the day
  • Cavendish was hoping for a relatively trouble-free day
  • Chris Froome's new polka dot helmet was waiting for him on his bike
  • Froome caught up with former team-mate Simon Gerrans on his way to the start
  • A quick sip of Gatorade before the off
  • Wiggins was in high demand...
  • ...The yellow jersey holder ready to roll...
  • ...And it was he who led the peloton out of Belfort
  • The pace was high at the start
  • The bunch momentarily splits in two to avoid traffic furniture
  • These cows didn't seem too impressed by the action
  • Wiggins was always towards the front of the peloton to avoid any danger...
  • ...Michael Rogers and Richie Porte kept him protected
  • Wiggins a picture of focus
  • Fredrik Kessiakoff produced a determined lone attack...
  • ...But he was eventually passed by Thibaut Pinot...
  • ...Who solo'd in for a fine stage victory
  • Wiggins, Froome and the other favourites crossed the line 26 seconds back
  • Pinot celebrates his victory on the podium...
  • ...Whereas Kessiakoff's display saw him take the polka dot jersey from Froome...
  • ...Wiggins though, maintained his grip on the yellow

Tour stage eight gallery

Bradley Wiggins and Mark Cavendish share a smile at the start of the day