Chris Froome has been confirmed as Team Sky’s leader for the Critérium du Dauphiné, a crucial build-up race in his bid to win the Tour de France for a second time.
The British rider won the race in 2013 en route to Tour de France success but a crash caused him to finish down in 12th last year after he won the opening two stages.
During the eight-stage race he will be able to test himself against reigning Tour de France champion Vincenzo Nibali (Astana), who is yet to win a race this season. However, the other two favourites for the maillot jaune in July, Alberto Contador (Tinkoff-Saxo) and Nairo Quintana (Movistar), will not be there.
Froome will be supported by Ian Boswell, Peter Kennaugh, Philip Deignan, Wout Poels, Nicolas Roche, Luke Rowe, and Ian Stannard.
Cyclingnews understands that Geraint Thomas will ride the Tour de Suisse from 13-21 June, while Richie Porte's race schedule has yet to be confirmed.
Thank you for reading 5 articles in the past 30 days*
Join now for unlimited access
Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
*Read any 5 articles for free in each 30-day period, this automatically resets
After your trial you will be billed £4.99 $7.99 €5.99 per month, cancel anytime. Or sign up for one year for just £49 $79 €59
Join now for unlimited access
Try your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1