Thumbs down for Ullrich, up for Rasmussen

By Hedwig Kröner in Montpellier

The French love him: Raymond Poulidor, the arch rival of five times Tour de France winner Jacques Anquetil back in the 60's, has become a heroic figure ever since his days as a professional bike rider. Also referred to as 'Poupou' or 'the eternal runner-up', the now 69 year-old has never worn the maillot jaune, but was always considered one of the favourites for the overall win at the Tour de France during his time, as he finished three times in second place amongst other top ten results.

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