Lance finishes third, but now it's Contador vs Armstrong vs The Schlecks in 2010

Contador’s irrepressible ambition, not unlike that of the young Armstrong who, in his early 20’s, was no respecter of reputations, brought him a deserved success. That Armstrong, at 37, with three years out of the sport, and a relative lack of hard racing, was able to finish third overall, tells you all you need to know about his determination to succeed.

SHOOT: Interesting to see Contador has his own version of a LIVESTRONG cap. Will be good to see these guys battling it out next year, but I somehow think the Schleck's may have the last laugh. Was disappointing that Andy and Lance weren't interviewed or asked to say a few words on the podium.

clipped from www.timesonline.co.uk No love lost: Contador (centre) and Armstrong (right) barely made eye contact on the podium in Paris Lance Armstrong and Alberto Contador could barely muster a handshake as the 2009 Tour de France ended on the Champs Elysees. The bitterness between the pair was apparent as they stood side by side, barely exchanging a word or a glance, on the Paris podium. Contador thrust his arms skywards, and beamed at the crowds, Armstrong stared straight ahead, stony-faced. The new champion and his Texan team-mate will be fierce rivals in next year’s race, which starts in Rotterdam in July 2010. Instead, the race beyond Astana’s internal intrigues was enlivened by the confirmation of talents such as Wiggins and Cavendish, Frank and Andy Schleck and the increasing prominence of young riders such as Nicolas Roche, son of 1987 Tour champion, Stephen Roche, and French newcomer, Brice Feillu.