(July 23, 2008)--Carlos Sastre of Spain won the 17th stage of the Tour de France Wednesday to take the overall lead from teammate Frank Schleck.
It was the hardest ride this year up three devastating Alpine climbs.
Sastre took the jersey by speeding ahead of the main title contenders Wednesday in the final ascent of the 130.8-mile ride from Embrun to L'Alpe d'Huez.
The stage was the last of three in the Alps.
Riders will face a time trial Saturday that's likely to determine the winner.
Cadel Evans of Australia didn't lose significant time.
He remains a favorite to win the Tour, barring a crash or other mishap, because he is the best time-trial cyclist among the remaining contenders.