The Dauphiné returns to the capital of the Arve Valley with a stage designed for the sprinters. With Nacer Bouhanni (Cofidis), Alexander Kristoff (Katusha), Sam Bennett (Bora Argon 18), and John Degenkolb (Giant Alpecin) all in the mix, the stage will be controlled by the sprinters' teams, rather than the GC contenders, although a break is likely to form and contest the four fourth-category climbs. The last climb comes almost 50 kilometres before the finish, providing the sprinters with little excuse.
Cyclingnews' top tip: Alexander Kristoff (Katusha): The Norwegian, on paper, is the strongest sprinter in the race, but will face stiff competition from the in-form Nacer Bouhanni (Cofidis), who won two stages last year.
TOPICS
-
Vittoria Terreno T90 review: Monstrous levels of grip from Vittoria's most aggressive gravel tyre
The Terreno T90 provides phenomenal grip in muddy and slick conditions -
Former Unbound Gravel winner Carolin Schiff returns from health issues with new 13-rider Canyon x DT Swiss All-Terrain Racing team
Bradyn Lange, Jasper Ockeloen, Mathijs Loman lead men's roster for season start at Santa Vall -
As Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe's new superstar flourishes, how are his co-leaders Primož Roglič, Florian Lipowitz and Jai Hindley faring in the early season?
Remco Evenepoel's new teammates begin to build as he takes the spotlight -
Jasper Philipsen alters spring racing programme as he builds to Milan-San Remo and Paris-Roubaix tilts
Two Monuments and season staples of Scheldeprijs and Dwars door Vlaanderen are also in the mix
