Dear Both,
I don't really have a strong view on it; I suppose it's just the system I don't like. I realise it will have been a team decision and that Mathieu will be under contract and is not "his own man". And, obviously, he did a great job as far as the team's sponsors go, so he is being a good pro. It could be that I don't like the idea of it being possible for a rider to wear the jersey when it's already known that he has no intention of finishing the ride. That might enable him to put more effort into the first few days, thereby depriving someone else of the honour. What I can't deny is that Mathieu is a terrific rider - though if the Olympic mountain bike race is any guide he can be a bit of a plank - or non-plank!