Five others who will light up cycling’s greatest road show

Chris Froome (Team Sky)

Froome has won every Tour he has finished since 2013 (four out of five). History tells us winning the Tour after the Giro is difficult and he will have to contend with roadside abuse. But still a heavy favourite.

Richie Porte (BMC)

Surprisingly high in the bookies’ lists considering his tendency down the years to suffer a “jour sans” at some point. But an exceptional rider when on form. And fresh. Could this be the year the Australian breaks his duck?

Nairo Quintana (Movistar)

The 28-year-old Colombian is a former Giro winner and one would have thought he might have won the Tour by now. Despite three podium finishes, he has never quite managed it. Strong showing at recent Tour de Suisse.

Mikel Landa (Movistar)

Quintana’s biggest threat may come from within his own team. Landa, who was excellent in support of Froome at Sky last year, also rides for Movistar. And the rumours are the Spaniard does not get on with Quintana.

Vincenzo Nibali (Bahrain-merida)

At 33, it feels as if time is against Nibali. But there is a reason the bookies still prefer him to young pretenders like Romain Bardet: he gets the job done. Incredibly consistent, although having an average season.