Video: Chris Boardman previews the 2012 Tour de France

Chris Boardman in the yellow jersey at the 1997 Tour de France (Image credit: AFP)

With just three days to go until the biggest cycling event in the world, Cyclingnews previews each of the 20 stages that will shape the race and make or break reputations. For all the plaudits and respect earned by victories in other WorldTour events, only the Tour de France provides a shot at cycling immortality - and you can follow the race every step of the way with us.

Here, in our series of exclusive videos, former rider Chris Boardman offers his expert analysis on each stage - discussing the routes and who he expects to shine. Boardman is well qualified to pass judgement, having worn the yellow jersey at the Tour in 1994, 1997 and 1998 - one of only four British riders to achieve that honour. Boardman also won gold on the track at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics and was the 1994 world time trial champion.